Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/401644
20 NOVEMBER 2014 GOOD FRUIT GROWER www.goodfruit.com Vocalness of those opposed to GMOs is not a true indicator of consumer attitudes. by Richard Lehnert M any in the apple industry are nervous about the pending deregulation of genetically modified apples. Will their presence create a consumer backlash that might affect the apple's image and marketability? A recent article on the topic in Good Fruit Grower prompted some reader reaction—mostly negative com- ments—that are posted on the www.goodfruit.com web- site. It is difficult to know what this means, but it does raise the question: Do people generally worry much about consuming foods produced using genetic engineering technology? David Schmidt, president of the International Food Information Council (IFIC), addressed that ques- tion during the U.S. Apple Association Marketing and Outlook Conference in Chicago in August. While several groups loudly oppose genetic engineer- ing, creating fearful images of what they call "Franken- foods," Schmidt says consumer group activism does not necessarily reflect consumer attitudes, and many consumer groups either support or do not oppose biotechnology. His organization has tried to plumb the depth of con- sumer thought and feeling about genetically modified foods and other food issues as well. Every other year since 1997, the organization has surveyed a thousand people. By asking the same questions year after, they can discern shifts in public attitudes. When consumers are asked open-ended questions that are neutral in tone, most show little concern about bioengineered foods. However, the information they do have is often incorrect—even if it is not negative. For example, many consumers think many fruits and vege- tables are bioengineered, even though virtually none are. Science-based advocacy The IFIC was created in 1985 to communicate sci- ence-based information about food safety and nutrition to consumers and opinion leaders. The organization is financially supported mostly by food, beverage, and agri- cultural industries that are supporters of food biotech- nology, though it lists many health-related organizations as partners. "The galvanizing issue that led to our formation then was aspartame (the non-sugar sweetener)," Schmidt told Good Fruit Grower. "Even though the ingredient had been approved by the FDA, activists were coming out of the woodwork to claim all sorts of harm from consuming aspartame in soft drinks." When asked what he thought the apple industry's position should be on Arctic apples, which are non- browning cultivars produced using genetic engineering, he replied: Toll Free: 855-855-0318 www.hfhauff.com • hfhauff@gmail.com We've got you COVERED! CALL TODAY for the dealer nearest YOU! Activism and attitudes TURBO 96 • Turbo 96 2-PT • Dome deck • 8-ft. cutting width • Adjustable offset w/cyl. • Cutting height 1.5 to 12" w/cyl • Blade overlap 4" • Divider box center: 120 HP; outboard: 110HP • Blade tip speed 17,004 FPM • Cutting capacity 2.5" • Side skirt .25" x 10" RHINO TURBO SERIES ROTARY CUTTERS VALLEY TRACTOR & RENTALS 4857 Contractor's Drive • East Wenatchee, Washington 509-886-1566 • 1-800-461-5339 YAKIMA IMPLEMENT & IRRIGATION 1922 S. First Street • Yakima, Washington 509-452-5867 • 1-800-572-2239