Why GM food is now off the Nestlé menu

Nestlé has not been “fanatical” in its promotion of genetically modified food, as Peter Melchett, executive director of Greenpeace, suggests in his recent letter (MW May 27).

Neither have we implied that the UK is the only country where concerns have been expressed.

In the presentation referred to by Mr Melchett, our chief executive officer Peter Brabeck mentioned the public debates which had taken place across Europe, referring not just to the UK but also Austria and Switzerland.

While the company believes the responsible use of biotechnology will ultimately bring significant benefits, we recognise that this cannot be achieved without the trust and confidence of all parties. That is why we have announced our intention to provide non-GM products in the UK.

Peter Blackburn

Chairman

Nestlé UK

Croydon

Surrey