By Kim Rahn
Staff Reporter

Snack and edible oil makers may have to disclose whether they use raw materials containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their products.

The government is considering forcing processed food manufacturers using GM ingredients to put labels showing the use of GMOs, according to the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Family Affairs, Thursday. GMO refers to plants and animals that have had their genetic material deliberately altered.

So far, the government has exempted food makers from labeling processed foods.

The ministry plans to decide on whether to expand the labeling after collecting experts' opinions.

Four food companies recently began importing GM corn to use in making starch, which is a core ingredient of many foods such as bread, noodles, cookies and soft drinks. Customers' groups claim the government should expand the GMO labeling system to protect the public's right to know and right to choose non-GM foods.

But some experts say that it will not be easy for the government to confirm whether non-GM food manufacturers really use natural products.

rahnita@koreatimes.co.kr