Only 1 in 4 consumers has heard anything about recalls of foods produced through biotechnology. Consumers may have mixed feelings on the labeling issue. The survey also presented consumers with the critics' desire to label all foods produced through biotechnology even if the safety and nutritional content are unchanged. When given the critics' view, more than half of consumers agree with them and just over one-third maintain the FDA position. This question represents the most significant shift in the survey, perhaps the result of the Starlink episode.
Consumers continue to respond positively to the benefits of biotechnology for the foods they eat.
For the first time since IFIC began its surveys, the number of Americans expecting to benefit from biotechnology in the future increased. Sixty-four percent expect to benefit from biotechnology within the next 5 years. This finding is consistent with a newly released FDA focus group report that also found consumers remained open-minded and open to future experience with foods produced by biotechnology. IFIC s programs are supported by the broad-based food, beverage and agricultural industries. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is distributed for research and educational purposes only.