Author : Traynor, Patricia

Summary : Early, unconditional optimism about biotechnology is giving way to a more realistic view. In many countries, the public is demanding a more active role in determining what goes into the food supply. Decision to use the technology and its products are no longer considered the sole domain of those who make or regulate GMOs. When the first GMOs were still under development, there was little discussion about public acceptance; it was, for the most part, assumed or in some cases dismissed as irrelevant. All the evidence to date shows that exactly the opposite is true. However, what should be a reasoned and informed debate over the appropriate use of biotechnology instead seems to be a long exchange of irresponsible claims and charges and countercharges between polarized factions. It appears entirely too likely that public acceptance could be the first casualty. The public will reap the benefits of biotechnology only by deciding that GMOs and transgenic food products will contribute to their well being. It is essential that governments and the biotechnology community ensure access to the balanced and credible information people need to make their decision.