This study addresses consumer acceptance of potatoes that have been genetically modified through biotechnology in Canada. This research was conducted through the summer and fall of 1994 to assess acceptance of specific applications of biotechnology, the first of which, resistance to the Colorado Potato Beetle, is expected to be available to consumers in 1997.
Food safety is taken for granted.
Canadians trust the producers, processors and retailers to provide wholesome, healthful products. In short, they assume a product is not on the grocery shelves unless, and until, it has been tested. Confidence in Canadian produce and products is considerably higher than in imported foods. Consumer awareness of biotechnology applications in foods is weak, but growing. The topic is being popularized in the media and holds a certain fascination for the public.