What does it mean to be well-informed? Rhetorics, perceptions and attitudes on the problem of transgenic food labelling

Abstract

In this research, we develop a case study, focused on Spain and the European Union, on the controversy over the labelling of transgenic foods. This paper firstly compares the social discourses that conceive labelling essentially as being a problem or a solution. Secondly, an analysis is provided of the main legislative responses, together with the specific issues that remain controversial in this field. Thirdly, the limits of the cognitive deficit model and the problem of establishing what information is relevant or irrelevant are discussed. The research concludes by showing the presence of the rhetorics of safety and risk, and proposes an outline of social positions around the consumption of transgenic foods, their differential labelling, and the endeavour of science in our societies.