The Hualian GMS hypermarket in Zhabei District's Pengpu area yesterday applied logos to 48 of its food brands, promising no genetically engineered, or GE materials were used in their production.
It is believed to be the first time a Chinese retailer has advertised the identity of non-GE foods. This has been a common practice in the West as consumers weigh the pros and cons of such products.
"Most Chinese consumers haven't paid enough attention to the possible health hazards brought about by genetically engineered food," said Zhou Meiyue, an official with the Chinese branch of Greenpeace which initiated the campaign.
Industry sources said scientists were mixed on the issue of whether GE food will pose health risks to humans. Some tests on animals have shown such food will lessen the immune system.
In February and March, Greenpeace wrote to 95 Chinese food producers, inquiring about their policies for genetically engineered food.
To date, it received written promises from 83 food brands by 50 companies that no genetically modified raw materials were used.
At the Pengpu outlet of Hualian, such brands as Danone, Roche, Heinz and Wyeth among others, were displayed with a green logo.
"I've heard of genetically engineered food but have little knowledge on it," said shopper Wang Haimin. "The new logos are good for consumers. I'll pay more attention to this since health is the most important thing."
Cheng Ying, an official with Hualian GMS Shopping Center Co Ltd, said: "We were contacted by Greenpeace on cooperation. We think it is really good for customers to know their rights have been protected.
"We will expand the practice to all Hualian GMS stores if it proves helpful," he added.
Greenpeace said it will cooperate with more retailers across China in future to promote the idea.
Li Kun, an official with corn oil producer Shanghai Rongs Co Ltd, said his company had applied the non-GE logo on all its packaging since 2002.
"We've invested a lot to live up to our promises, including control of raw materials and additives during production," Li said.
China's Ministry of Agriculture ordered in April 2002 that all food makers using GE materials should identify it on its packages.
"Very few companies will do this since it will affect sales," Li said.