Consumers have a right to clear, unambiguous labelling in order to make informed purchasing choices says a report on genetically-modified foods released last week by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland.

From a consumer regulation point of view, the Food Safety and Genetically Modified Foods report says "there are currently three separate pieces of EU legislation governing the use of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) in foods. These cover the procedure for GM foods on the market, the labelling requirements and their release into the environment".

However, the committee that compiled the report determined that labelling regulations need to be strengthened in the interests of the consumer.

"People have a right to know the origins of the food they're buying," said Dr Patrick Wall, chief executive of the Food Safety Authority.

Despite the labelling suggestions, the committee determined that "GM foods on sale in Ireland are as safe as their conventionally grown counterparts".