Genetically modified crops pose a very low risk to human health, and food derived from GM crops are probably as safe as conventional varieties, a scientific study has concluded.

“On balance, the panel concludes that the risks to human health from GM crops currently on the market are very low,” the report of the government-backed study, published on Monday, was quoted as saying by Reuters.

The report said “there have been no verifiable untoward toxic or nutritionally deleterious effects” on human health, but did not go so far as to claim all GM crops are completely safe.

The scientific panel that carried out the GM Science Review said more research was needed, particularly as new varieties of GM crops enter the market.

“It is clear that gaps in our knowledge and uncertainties will become more complex if the range of plants and traits introduced increases,” the panel said.

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The report said concerns that GM crops would cross pollinate with conventional plants to create “superweeds” were largely unfounded. GM crops are “very unlikely to invade our countryside or become problematic plants,” it said.