BEVERLEY KAYE - THE ROWLAND COMPANY
’The fundamental problem with the introduction of these foods into the
UK and Europe was that the communications strategy was designed and made
in the US. The companies concerned failed to recognise that the
political and commercial clout which allowed them to generate acceptance
of these products back home would never cut the mustard in Europe, where
a far more sophisticated approach is required. They have been playing
catch-up ever since.’
PETER MELCHETT - GREENPEACE
’Monsanto’s own internal documents, leaked to Greenpeace, reveal a
collapse of public support for GM foods. Even a pounds 1 million
advertising campaign failed to change this dismal picture. Monsanto’s
approach, of forcing this food on all of us by converting what they call
the ’upper socio-economic elite’, is disgusting.’
EVIE SOAMES - CHARLES BARKER BSMG
’I’m not sure that it could have been handled better. Gene manipulation
is a difficult concept to explain without raising the spectre of
’Frankenstein’ foods. Genetically modified tomato paste out-sells
conventional varieties and there is no discernible resistance to
products containing GM soya and maize.
CHARLENE BARGERON - GREENLINES HEALTHCARE COMMUNICATIONS
’Successfully introducing a new product requires market understanding
and honest pre-launch preparation of your influencers before your
purchasers. GM tomato paste was introduced successfully with full
labelling and consumer leaflets - consumers had choice. Americans have
accepted slipping GM soya into world supplies. But they got it wrong in
the UK. Their lack of appreciation of post-BSE consumer cynicism, and a
cavalier approach to safety and environmental fears has failed
everyone.’
SHEILA MCKECHNIE - CONSUMERS’ ASSOCIATION
’There should have been greater public debate over GM foods. Monsanto’s
initial advertising campaign was misleading. Monsanto’s report found
holes in its campaign and confirms the public’s lack of faith in the
current system of food regulation following the BSE crisis. The
introduction of GM food has only served to re-enforce these concerns.’
