Genetic modification is a technique that plays a role in a vast area of scientific research, involving micro-organisms such as bacteria, plants, animals and even humans. The reason to change the genetic makeup of an organism may be for the production of valuable substances or food, for medical aspects or to do scientific discoveries.

For many years there has been opposition to the technique because of ethical reasons, because of the fear that nature irreversibily will be changed, or that unforeseen risks are at play that could surface in the future. A Science Information Pack has been put together to understand these developments and concerns. Its content can be viewed or downloaded from the section below.

The ComScience project has organised public events in different Europan countries, results can be found at the 'Events' pages.

SIPs have been prepared to be used by teachers, science communicators or science event organisers. Please feel free to examine the materials that are presented below. If you have questions or requests regarding of the content (film or written materials) please contact the ComScience management

	The Film : The image on the left is the link for viewing this 5 minutes movie on this science subject. If you wish to receive a copy of this film in high or web-quality, please contact the ComScience managment.		Contact Database : the ComScience project interacts with European researchers in preparation of the presented materials. Either view the online file or use the .doc or .pdf file.
	Handout : This A4 sheet is used to inform the participants about the the science topic. On the reverse side, organisers can include details on the event itself, the invited participants, experts and about the organizers. A questionnaire is also a great idea. Either view the online file or use the .doc or .pdf file.		The Background : document with more detailed information on the science subject. Its content can be used to prepare a public event, lessons or for student projects. Either view the online file or use the .doc or .pdf file.
	FAQs : Frequently asked questions aim to find quick answers and to prepare for questions during events or classroom lessons. Either view the online file or use the .doc or .pdf file.		The Glossary : this list of terms helps to better understand the science subject. Many terms from different fields of science are used by specialists and quite uncommon to many people. Either view the online file or use the .doc or .pdf file.

New technologies have a great influence on our daily lives and plant biotechnology is no exception. After all, plants provide us with the food we need to survive. However, plant biotechnology is a controversial area where both the basic research and its application to our daily lives is viewed with suspicion by members of the public. Legitimate concerns have been raised. The content of the film addresses the role genetic modification and plant biotechnology plays and is likely to play in our society.

The unique approach to present the content is through a question and answer format. Is GM food safe to eat? What about the impact on our environment? Do we need it? Is all the truth told about GM crops? What about our right to choose? Can GM crops help the third world?

What about the future? The viewpoints represent different perspectives on the issues without resorting to exploit public emotions. The story in the film "GM food and you" is a journey through the maze of complexities surrounding genetic modification. The goal of the film is to make the issues understandable and to empower the public. In short, the movie illuminates the issues behind the scenes. The questions raised are applicable to most new technologies. The film is targeted towards the general public and educational institutions.

More information can be found in the book "Genes on the Menu" by Paul Pechan and Gert de Vries:

The term "genetic modification" regularly makes headlines in the news. Supporters and opponents as well tell us that it could change our lives more than any other technological advance. This book delivers the state-of-the-art facts in order to empower the public to make knowledge-based decisions about plant biotechnology and GM crops and GM food, in particular. It will function as a personal reference book for the interested public, for decision maker, and managers of consumer organisations. Hardcover with free CD-ROM, 240 pp, 35 illustr., 6 in colour ISBN 3540201785 (Springer).