Background

What do “average citizens ” think about genetically modified foods (GMF)? Do their potential benefits outweigh their risks? Should food products containing GM ingredients be so labeled? Surveys of attitudes toward GM foods and discussions on the topic in the US have been plentiful. The research typically indicates at least a low level of concern about GMFs. Yet GMFs continue to be prevalent in the American food marketplace. Whatever concerns Americans may have, they have not adversely impacted the production or consumption of GM foods. Indeed, there have not been sufficient political pressures in the US to require the labeling of GMFs, unlike in Europe and elsewhere around the globe. There is not a comprehensive mandatory labeling policy in the United States at the present time. Producers may voluntarily label their products as having been made with genetically modified ingredients. Labeling is mandatory for a product that is “significantly different” from its traditional counterpart, meaning the product contains a food allergen or has altered nutritional characteristics. As part of a program of research examining attitudes, beliefs and knowledge related t