In a study into how genetically modified (GM) herbicide tolerant crops could be used to benefit the environment, scientists from Broom's Barn Research Station in Suffolk show that creative use of GM sugar beet could bring back increasing numbers of endangered wildlife and birds such as skylarks and finches, according to the Royal Society.
Friends of the Earth, however, claim to have identified a number of key weaknesses in the study. Their press release also claims that the research does not cover some key objections to GM sugar beet, including gene transfer and animal feed safety.
The Soil Association joins in with criticism of the report, making the point that "People wishing to support a system of farming with proven environmental benefits as agreed by the Government can do so through buying organic food."
Organisations that are interested in getting local and organic food served in local shops, schools, hospitals, cafes, hotels, community centres and other outlets can now visit a new website set up by the Soil Association to find out more.
Food and drink firms are having to be more creative to attract and retain good staff while offering them a better work/life balance.
In a climate where salaries are only rising at the rate of inflation, both manufacturers and retailers admit employees are not just after big pay packets but want flexible hours, personal development programmes and bespoke training.
Speaking at the annual City Food Lecture last week, Food Standards Agency chairman Sir John Krebs said that current supply-chain checking systems could be improved. "I think there may be room for food manufacturers and retailers to be more proactive in ensuring that the materials they use meet the required standards", he stated. In particular, with the expansion of the EU, "industry will have to be vigilant in checking its sources to ensure safety and borders are upheld", Krebs warned.
In a wide-ranging speech he also called on food assurance schemes to be "committed to the principles of honesty, transparency and independence."
