There are individual and collective methods of controlling biotechnology. As consumers, individuals can make purchasing choices based on labeling information. The Optima study found that eighty-three percent of consumers want products labeled with information on the biotechnology method used. This does not necessarily signal opposition to biotechnology food products. There is also strong support for the choice in food products.
Government also helps to control the social impact of biotechnology.
The regulatory system is designed to protect the health and safety of Canadians. The role that government plays in the management of biotechnology is crucial to support for the technology. Those groups in the public who are most trusting of government, industry and the technology establishment are the most likely to support modern technologies - biotechnology included. Those groups who do not believe that government shares their values are less likely to trust government and are, therefore, less supportive of its policies. Government's role in directing the socioethical impact of biotechnology will be critical to its legitimacy and success.