December 6, 2001 -- Despite prolific and vocal campaigning
by anti-biotechnology activist groups against national food manufacturers and
retailers, research conducted this year by the United Soybean Board (USB)
demonstrates that a surprisingly low number of U.S. consumers is aware of
activism related to biotechnology.

According to USB's survey, 48 percent of consumers responded that they do
not know enough about biotechnology to say how they view the use of
genetically modified ingredients in food products. Out of the 62 percent who
were aware of the term "genetically modified," only 19 percent were aware of
activist groups linked to the issue. Of that 19 percent, 80 percent say
they have not taken any action such as boycotting products or writing food
companies, based on information that activist groups have provided.