Genetically Engineered Crops in America Analyses, Adoption, Trends

Genetically engineered (GE) varieties with pest management traits became commercially available for major crops in 1996. Over 15 years later, adoption of these varieties by U.S. farmers is widespread and U.S. consumers eat many products derived from GE crops -- including cornmeal, oils, and sugars -- largely unaware that these products were derived from GE crops. Despite the rapid increase in the adoption of corn, soybean, and cotton GE varieties by U.S. farmers, questions persist regarding their economic and environmental impacts, the evolution of weed resistance, and consumer acceptance. This book examines issues related to three major stakeholders in agricultural biotechnology: GE seed suppliers and technology providers (biotech firms), farmers, and consumers.