First Decade Of Genetically Engineered Crops In The United States

Ten years after the first generation of genetically engineered (GE) varieties became commercially available, adoption of these varieties by U.S. farmers is widespread for major crops. Despite the benefits, however, environmental and consumer concerns may have limited acceptance of GE crops, especially in Europe. This report focuses on GE crops and their adoption in the U.S. over the past 10 years. It finds that: (1) the pace of R&D activity by producers of GE seed has been rapid; (2) farmers have adopted some GE varieties widely and at a rapid rate and benefited from such adoption; and (3) the level of consumer concerns about foods that contain GE ingred. varies by country, with European consumers being most concerned. Illustrations.