Biotechnology can be a confusing issue for consumers for a number of reasons.
As a process of using parts of living organisms to create new products, biotechnology is not new. However, genetic engineering, which is a more precise application of biotechnology, is a relatively recent technology. Understanding biotechnology is further hampered by the fact that genetic engineering is not evident to the casual observer. Additional concerns are the rapid rate of change and the wide range and diversity of information confronting consumers. In order to understand consumers' reactions to and perceptions of biotechnology, the Office of Consumer Affairs has undertaken a number of studies and focus groups over the past two years, largely under the auspices of the National Biotechnology Strategy.