Sir, - The problem of antibiotic resistance has been highlighted in both medical and non-medical publications recently. It therefore is with great concern that we note that recent research has demonstrated that antibiotic resistance genes used to develop plants such as Monsanto's sugar beet may spread to other disease causing viruses.
There are many possible adverse health effects from genetically engineered foods. However, because these foods are not labelled, the science of epidemiology cannot detect these ill-effects.
In the interest of public health, the Irish Association of Doctors for the Environment earnestly requests that all foods containing genetically engineered ingredients be so labelled and calls for more research into the possible health effects before putting these foods on the market. - Yours, etc., Elizabeth Cullen
Irish Association of Doctorsfor the Environment, Kilcullen, Co Kildare.