by Julianne Johnston
A national survey conducted by the Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA)
concludes that U.S. consumers are increasingly aware of ag biotechnology,
but have not changed their food consumption behavior, despite publicity
over the recall of taco shells allegedly containing unapproved biotech corn.
GMA says recent news stories surrounding the recall of Taco Bell taco
shells is not having a profound impact on consumers' buying patterns. Only
5% of respondents reported that they had "actually done anything or taken
any actions because of any concerns about genetically modified foods."
GMA president and CEO C. Manly Molpus believes the results show consumers
have high confidence in government agencies and are pleased by the swift
action of the recall.
In addition, the survey found that only 10% of consumers worry a great deal
that the foods they eat might not be safe. Consumers' main concerns remain
those related to food that is not fresh or not handled in an appropriate
manner.
The survey also found:
53% of consumers had personally read or heard recent news about food
products being recalled by their manufacturer.
Over three-quarters of respondents had heard or read about the topic of ag
biotechnology.
33^% reported that they had not avoided or reduced consumption of any foods
over the past few months. No one interviewed mentioned avoiding any foods
with genetically modified ingredients.
67% would be likely to buy produce (such as potatoes or tomatoes) that had
been modified through biotechnology to require fewer pesticides.
66% would buy biotech produce if it were modified to contain more vitamins
and nutrients.
Interviews were conducted with 500 American adults between October 6-8 by
KRC Research. Results have a margin of error of +/- 4.4 percent. GMA said
it would continue monitoring consumers to determine whether the most recent
recall of taco shells manufactured for Safeway Supermarkets would have any
impact on food safety concerns.
