Frankenstein's “Genebeast” will be unleashed at the Bath branch of Sainsbury's today. The protest by Friends of the Earth will draw attention to genetically modified foods sold nationwide by the giant supermarket chain. Polls show that the majority of people do not want to eat “Frankenstein” foods. FOE is campaigning for supermarkets to drop these ingredients.[1]

The Genebeast will appear at Sainsbury's, who pride themselves on listening to their customers and have recently introduced a bigger range of organic foods as a result of a customer poll. Sainsbury's sells a number of products that contain genetically modified ingredients. Most are not labelled, so consumers cannot choose to avoid them.

Government research into the risks of eating genetically engineered foods will not be completed until the year 2001. In the meantime genetically engineered foods, especially soya and maize, are being sold by supermarkets every day. Soya products can be found in 60% of processed foods including bread, baby foods, chocolate and cakes.

Commenting, Adrian Bebb Food Campaigner at Friends of the Earth, said:

“We welcome the increase in organic food sold by Sainsbury's. But we think they are being very selective when listening to their customers views. Most people are extremely concerned about genetically engineered foods and want to avoid them.Some supermarkets have eliminated these ingredients wherever possible.Sainsbury's haven't. We hope the horrifying story of Frankenstein and the Genebeast will make them think again.”

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