Non-GM policies: cost implications

This section builds on the analysis presented in section 4 by examining, for a
range of food products, the current and likely future costs of maintaining a non-
GM ingredient policy. This has been undertaken by assessing the costs of key
ingredients according to whether a non-GM policy is applicable or not (i.e.
comparing ingredient/raw material costs for a GM versus non-GM derived
product). Where relevant (e.g. where soy or maize-based ingredients are used),
an additional forward looking (2-3 years) assessment of costs is also provided.
The products have been selected to represent a range of applications where GMO
avoidance policies are in place. They include products where GM ingredients
represent both a significant proportion of total ingredient use, products where reformulation
of ingredients used (as distinct from switching to a non-GM equivalent of
the same crop) has occurred and livestock-based products where GM ingredients are
important components of feed. The products use recipes that may be regarded as
typical of the sector concerned:
a) Fresh poultry meat
b) Soy oil and onward conversion to margarine
c) Flour-based baked product: synthetic “cream”-filled, coated biscuit
d) Chocolate-based confectionery product: similar to above, with typical chocolate
coating
e) Pizza: “deep pan” base with ham and mushroom topping
f) Prepared ready-meal: chicken breast with bacon, savoury stuffing and sauce