Starbucks Rejects Genetically Modified Coffee
November 20, 2001

As Starbucks Coffee Company has previously communicated, we do not wish to enter into the debate about genetic modification in the food supply. We do not have the scientific expertise to do so, and would not be credible if we tried.  Based on the information we have reviewed and the positions of regulators around the world, we believe that the products we offer that have content derived from genetically modified (GM) technology are safe for consumption.  We agree that not enough testing has been done to determine the long-term effects of this technology on our environment, and believe more testing should be done.

We also believe that consumers should be disappointed about the lack of information on this potentially important technology.  They should also be upset that GM material is present in our food supply without their prior knowledge.  We believe these issues must be addressed beginning with the clarification of what is known and what remains to be known about the possible impacts of this technology. We support research that leads to more information for the public from independent credible sources. 

Starbucks maintains the position that if our consumers are concerned about GM material, we will act responsibly to meet their needs where we can develop feasible alternatives. In the case of coffee, we do not now nor do we plan to use any coffee derived from genetic modification.  In our opinion, there is no reason to pursue this technology for coffee and we do not plan to support its development.

As Starbucks has previously communicated, we are committed to providing our customers with information about our products and about the progress we make in identifying alternative products that better meet our customers needs.