A survey of leading bioscientists showed that only half of them give unqualified support for the introduction of genetically-modified crops on a commercial basis in Britain, it was reported last night.
And those who supported the introduction of GM crops nonetheless backed a moratorium or wanted to see additional research, the Daily Telegraph found.
The views, expressed in a poll of 20 eminent scientists, come despite a majority saying they were confident GM food on sale at supermarkets is safe and that they do not object to eating it.
Their concerns are based on the possible environmental impact of the crops, especially whether introduced genes can spread to other plants.
However, a small minority of the scientists questioned were adamant they did not eat GM food.
Professor Semir Zeki of University College London said: "Given the assurances about beef, only a madman would take what the government says at face value."
But none of those surveyed directly supported the 22 "top international scientists" who last week backed Dr Arpad Pusztai, whose concerns are at the centre of the scare about GM potatoes.
One said he had heard of just one of the 21 scientists, adding "but then I have only been working in the area for only 20 years".