Biotech Comms Guide - 2013

Food Biotechnology:
3rd EDITION A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding
www.foodinsight.org
Food Biotechnology:
A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding
3rd EDITION
Thank you to those who reviewed and/or contributed to the development of

this Guide:
Contributors
Mary Lee Chin, MS, RD
Lindsey Field, MS, RD, LD
Jennifer Schmidt, MS, RD
Rebecca Scritchfield, MA, RD, ACSM HFS
Cheryl Toner, MS, RD
Reviewers
Christine M. Bruhn, PhD, University of California, Davis
Lowell B. Catlett, PhD, New Mexico State University
Mary Lee Chin, MS, RD, Nutrition Edge Communications
Marsha Diamond, MA, RD, M. Diamond, LLC
Connie Diekman, MEd, RD, LD, FADA, Washington University in St. Louis
Terry D. Etherton, PhD, The Pennsylvania State University
Martina Newell-McGloughlin, DSc, University of California, Davis
Design by Boomerang Studios, Inc.
©April 2013, International Food Information Council Foundation
This document was prepared under a partnering agreement between the United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) and the International
Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation to provide vital information to communicators
on food biotechnology. This partnership agreement does not constitute an endorsement of any
products or organizations that support IFIC or the IFIC Foundation.
www.foodinsight.org
Table of Contents
1
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER
Introduction and Program Summary............................................................................................................. 1
LANGUAGE
CHAPTER
2 Developing Your Message.................................................................................................................................... 3
Key Messages................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Words to Use and Words to Lose................................................................................................................12
PRESENTATION
CHAPTER
3 Preparing the Presentation...............................................................................................................................17
Tips for Communicating with Impact.........................................................................................................18
Answering Tough Questions............................................................................................................................19
PRESENTATION HANDOUTS
CHAPTER
4 Facts about Food Biotechnology..................................................................................................................24
Food Biotechnology Timeline..........................................................................................................................26
MEDIA TIPS
CHAPTER
5 Guidelines for Interacting with the Media.............................................................................................29
Improving Public Understanding: Guidelines for Communicating
Emerging Science on Nutrition, Food Safety, and Health........................................................37
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
CHAPTER
6 Directory of Professional Science, Health, and Government
Organizations with Food Biotechnology Resources.....................................................................41
GLOSSARY OF FOOD & AGRICULTURAL

CHAPTER
7 BIOTECHNOLOGY TERMS....................................................................................................................45
www.foodinsight.org
Dear Colleagues:
As farmers and other food producers discover the opportunities provided by
food biotechnology, there is a growing interest in the safety and sustainability of
these foods. Although foods produced through biotechnology have been safely
1
consumed for more than 15 years, they remain a controversial topic around the INTRODUCTION
world, with some individuals raising questions about their safety, environmental
impact, and regulation.
To understand the complexity of the issues, access to current, scientifically
sound, and consumer-friendly information on food biotechnology is needed. • Introduction and Program Summary
To aid in communicating on this often confusing and controversial topic, the
International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation has provided a
comprehensive resource, Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to
Improving Understanding, 3rd edition, for use by leaders and other communi-
cators in the food, agricultural, nutrition, and health communities.
Whether you are providing an overview of the science or responding to a media
inquiry, the Guide provides you with key facts and resources on food biotech-
nology to help tailor your message to your specific audience. In this Guide, you
will find the latest science and consumer-friendly information in the form of talk-
ing points, handouts, a glossary, a PowerPoint presentation, tips for engaging
with the media, and more.
The use of biotechnology in food production is a personal issue for many, often
largely based on emotion, leading to broad differences in opinion. Understand-
ing that discussions can turn into heated debates, we have provided guidance to
help you prepare for such situations and to feel confident answering the tough
questions on biotechnology’s safety and benefits.
It is our hope that this Guide will be a useful resource as you work to improve
understanding of food biotechnology for the benefit of future generations.
To access the online version of the Guide and additional resources, visit
www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx.
David B. Schmidt Marianne Smith Edge, MS, RD, LD, FADA

President and CEO Senior Vice President, Nutrition & Food Safety
www.foodinsight.org
–1–
communicate the
2
facts clearly LANGUAGE
and concisely
• Developing Your Message
• Key Messages
• Words to Use and Words to Lose
Developing Your Message

The topic of food biotechnology* can be complex and confusing. For some
with deeply held personal beliefs about food, it can be a highly emotional
topic. Therefore, how you communicate is as important as what you say.
First, this chapter will provide four • A Supporting Talking Point may
Key Messages about food biotech- work for more than one Key Mes-
nology focusing on safety, consumer sage, with minor tweaking. For
benefits, sustainability, and feeding example, although reduced pesti-
the world. Some things to remember cide use is primarily an example
about the Key Messages: of biotechnology’s role in sustain-
ability, more than three-quarters
• The Key Messages and Supporting
(77%) of consumers say they are
Talking Points are not a script. As
more likely to buy foods produced
will be discussed in the Preparing
through biotechnology if they
the Presentation chapter (also see
are grown with fewer pesticides,
sidebar in this chapter, Tips for
according to a 2012 survey by IFIC.
Communicating with Impact),
That’s a consumer message, as well!
you must tailor your language to
“My conclusion here today is
your situation. • It is helpful to reinforce your mes- very clear: the GM [genetic
sage through repetition, while also modification] debate is over.
• The Supporting Talking Points are
thoughtfully addressing the audi- You are more likely to get hit
a “message menu” from which you
ence’s concerns. by an asteroid than to get hurt
may select a few talking points with by GM food.”
specific facts and examples that • Acknowledge that food biotech- Mark Lynas, British writer and
help to add depth and meaning to nology is but one of many tools environmentalist. Oxford Farming
Conference, Oxford University,
the Key Message. farmers and food producers can January 3, 2013.
*Check the Glossary for definitions of terms and additional details you or your audience may
find useful as you are using the Key Messages.
–3–
2 Language Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition
www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx
use to provide a food supply that

is safe, affordable, plentiful, flavor-
Key Messages
ful, nutritious, convenient, and
sustainable.
Message One:
>> Food Safety
Tips for • Check the IFIC Foundation
Communicating Foods produced using
website, www.foodinsight.org/
biotechnology that are currently
with Impact foodbioguide.aspx, often for
available are safe for people
updates regarding research,
and our planet, and in some
regulation, product development,
cases the technology may be
and product availability.
(See Chapter 3 for further discussion of used to improve safety.
these tips.) Second, the importance of word
choice is explored, including con-
Supporting Talking Points
1. Relate as a person, as well as
a professional. sumer-tested food biotechnology • Numerous studies conducted
2. Show empathy for others and Words to Use and Words to Lose. over the past three decades have
that you care about the issue. supported the safety of foods pro-
3. K
now your audience and duced through biotechnology.1-7
prepare accordingly.
• Consumers have been eating bio-
4. Be straightforward, clear, and
concise. tech foods safely since 1996, with
no evidence of harm demonstrated
5. Be confident in handling
questions. anywhere in the world.5
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA), Food and Drug Admin-
istration (FDA), and Environ-
“Our AMA recognizes the many
mental Protection Agency (EPA)
potential benefits offered by coordinate regulation and provide
bioengineered crops and foods, guidance on safety testing of agri-
does not support a moratorium cultural crops and animals pro-
on planting bioengineered duced through biotechnology and
crops, and encourages ongoing
the foods derived from them. This
research developments in food
biotechnology.” ensures the safety of the U.S. food
American Medical Association, supply. These regulations address
Policy on Bioengineered (Genetically impacts on human food, animal
Engineered) Crops and Foods, 2012.
feed, and the environment.1,4,8
• International scientific organiza-
“There is no evidence at all that
the current GE foods pose any
tions, such as the World Health
risk to humans. The food-safety Organization (WHO) and Food and
tests conducted by GE seed Agriculture Organization (FAO) of
producers and others … have the United Nations, have evaluated
not found any evidence of harm, evidence regarding the safety and
including allergic reactions.”
benefits of food biotechnology and
Greg Jaffe, Center for Science in
the Public Interest. Report: “Straight they each support the responsible
Talk on Genetically Engineered use of biotechnology for its cur-
Foods: Answers to Frequently Asked
Questions,” April 2012. rent and future positive impacts on
addressing food insecurity, malnu-
trition, and sustainability.7,9
–4–
Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition Language 2
• Foods developed through bio- such as genetic engineering and • Biotechnology can help improve
technology have been studied cloning, as well as use of prod- the safety of food by minimizing
extensively and judged safe by a ucts such as the protein hormone naturally occurring toxins and
broad range of regulatory agencies, recombinant bovine somatotropin allergens in certain foods.
scientists, health professionals, (rbST) given to dairy cows.
o Through biotechnology, scientists
and other experts in the U.S. and
o Food from genetically engineered have developed a potato that
around the world.1-5,7,8
animals is not currently marketed produces less acrylamide when
• Trusted health organizations such in the U.S. When new food prod- heated or cooked. This product
as the American Medical Associa- ucts from animals bred using ge- is currently under review by U.S.
tion have endorsed the responsible netic engineering are proposed, regulatory authorities.15
use of biotechnology to enhance federal regulators have a process
o Low-lactose milk is now pro-
food production.2,7,9 in place to evaluate their safety
duced more efficiently with
on a case by case basis.10,11
• Consuming foods produced biotechnology-derived enzymes,
through biotechnology is safe o The FDA has concluded that the an important benefit for people
for children and women who are use of cloning in breeding cows, who suffer from lactose intoler-
pregnant or nursing.1 goats, and pigs is a safe agricul- ance or sensitivity.16
tural practice, and the meat and
• For those with food allergies, o In the future, scientists may be
milk from these animals is the
the use of biotechnology itself will able to remove proteins that
same as from other animals.12,13
not increase the potential for a cause allergic reactions to foods
food to cause an allergic reaction o The safety of milk and other such as soy, milk, and peanuts,
or a new food allergy.1 The food dairy products from cows given making the food supply safer for
label is the best guide for consum- rbST has been established and allergic individuals.17-19
ers to avoid ingredients to which reinforced through decades of
• According to a 2012 IFIC Survey,
they are allergic. research.14
the majority (69%) of U.S. consum-
o During FDA’s extensive review o Animal feed containing biotech ers are confident about the safety
of a new food product developed crops is the same as feed derived of the U.S. food supply.20
using biotechnology, if one or from conventionally-grown crops,
o When consumers share their food
more of the eight major food just as meat, milk, and eggs are
safety concerns, biotechnology
allergens (milk, eggs, wheat, fish, the same, whether the animal is
is not a common response—only
shellfish, tree nuts, soy, or pea- fed biotech or conventional feed.1
2% of consumers mention any
nuts) were introduced, testing
concern about biotechnology.
for the potential to cause allergic
In contrast, nearly one-third are
reactions is required.1
concerned about foodborne ill-
o The FDA requires special labeling ness and contamination (29%)
of any food, whether produced and nearly one-quarter are con-
through biotechnology or not, if cerned about poor food handling
a protein from one or more of the and preparation (21%).20
major food allergens is present.1
o While about half (53%) of
• Animal biotechnology is a safe consumers are avoiding certain
technique for producing meat, foods or ingredients, none report
milk, and eggs. avoiding foods produced through
biotechnology.20
o Background: Animal biotech-
nology includes a number of
advanced breeding practices,
–5–
Message Two: which can otherwise grow in the

>> Consumer Benefits holes created by plant pests and
produce toxins that threaten
Food biotechnology is being used
food safety. Therefore, research
to improve nutrition, enhance
with other crops, such as rice
food safety and quality, and pro-
and sugar cane, is underway to
tect food crops and animals from
provide this benefit across the
diseases that would otherwise
food supply. 24,30
threaten our stable, affordable,
and wholesome food supply. o In the 1990’s, the Hawaiian pa-
paya crop was nearly devastated
by papaya ringspot virus, which
• Improved crop disease protection would have eliminated the only
“I think it’s all fascinating. There’s through biotechnology provides a U.S. supply of the fruit. While
no one-minute answer. The more reliable harvest, which keeps other approaches to controlling
technology’s here. If they can food consistently available and the virus failed, biotechnology
give us a better tomato, I’m for it.”
affordable for all consumers.21-25 saved the crop and Hawaii’s pa-
Julia Child, Toronto Star,
October 27, 1999. paya industry with the develop-
o The natural defenses of plants
ment of virus resistant papaya.31
can be enhanced by biotechnol-
“For thousands of years we’ve ogy, resulting in hardier plants • Through advanced breeding, sci-
been breeding plants … so and increased yields. Examples entists have developed foods and
that we can have fruits and
include papaya protected from ingredients containing a higher
vegetables that are safe and
healthy. We’re now using papaya ringspot virus (on the proportion of healthful fats that can
the latest generation of market today), as well as plums help to support heart, brain, and
biotechnology to … make them protected from plum pox vi- immune health. Other foods and
even safer.” rus and beans protected from ingredients are being developed.
Ronald Kleinman, MD, Physician bean golden mosaic virus (both
in Chief, Massachusetts General o Advanced breeding and modern
Hospital for Children, 2012.
currently under regulatory
food production have been used
review).26-29
to develop canola, soybean, and
o Corn protected against insects sunflower oils that do not pro-
is also protected against mold, duce trans fats.32-36
–6–
o Soybean and canola oils are being • Above all else, consumers want
developed with biotechnology food that tastes good, and biotech-
to provide the specific omega-3 nology research is underway to
fats that are most protective for develop foods that taste better and “The application of modern
heart health. Existing soybean remain fresh for longer periods of biotechnology to food production
and canola are already high in time. presents new opportunities and
challenges for human health and
omega-3 fats—these advance- development … improved quality
o Scientists have developed
ments are intended to provide and nutritional and processing
tomatoes, melons, and papaya
additional heart-healthy options characteristics, which can
through biotechnology that ripen
from plant-based foods.33,35-37 contribute directly to enhancing
at the right time to deliver a fresh human health and development.
o Researchers have successfully product with better flavor to con- Department of Food Safety,
bred both pigs and cows through sumers (not available in stores World Health Organization, 2005.
cloning and genetic engineer- today).16,41
ing to produce higher levels of
o Researchers have developed
omega-3 fats in the meat. If made
apples and potatoes that keep
available, consumers would have
their original color longer after
additional options for boosting
slicing or rough handling (they
levels of these healthful dietary
don’t bruise as easily), and stay
fats.38,39
crisp longer than their traditional
o According to a 2012 IFIC survey, counterparts. The gene that is re-
the majority of consumers would sponsible for browning is simply
likely purchase foods enhanced turned off, or “silenced” in these “Advances in the genetic
through biotechnology to provide foods, making them more appeal- engineering of plants have
better nutrition (69%), more ing to both suppliers and con- provided enormous benefits to
American farmers.”
healthful fats (71%), and less sumers.6,42 The apple is currently
Barack Obama, United States
saturated fat (68%).20 under review by USDA. Presidential Candidate. Science
Debate 2008.
• Biotechnology is being used to o According to a 2012 IFIC survey,
improve nutrition in a variety of a majority of consumers (69%)
foods for the purpose of address- say they would buy foods en-
ing serious malnutrition around the hanced through biotechnology to
globe.40 (See Feeding the World taste better.20
Message on page 10)
–7–
Message Three: o Herbicide-tolerant crops allow natural predators of the

>> Sustainability farmers to control weeds better, crop pests, which is good for
which allows crops to thrive.21 the ecosystem.46
Biotechnology supports
the social, economic, and o With insect-protected crops, o Because farmers can spray
environmental sustainability farmers are able to harvest insecticide less often with Bt
of agriculture. more healthy, damage-free crops, farmers are protected
crops per acre.43 from accidental poisoning.51,52
o With the use of rbST and proper o Thanks to widespread planting
• Biotechnology contributes to the
management, five cows can of Bt corn, European Corn Borer
environmental sustainability of
produce the same amount of milk (a major pest for corn crops)
agriculture by improving the safe
that once took six cows, result- has been suppressed so effec-
and effective use of pesticides,
ing in less feed used and less tively that the pest is no longer
reducing the amount of insecticide
methane gas (a greenhouse gas) a threat, even to non-Bt corn in
used on crops, reducing green-
produced by dairy herds.49 nearby fields.53
house gas emissions, preserving
and improving soil quality, and o Biotechnology has played an o With the adoption of herbicide-
reducing crop losses both in the important role in the reduction tolerant crops, farmers have
field and after harvest.21,25,43-48 and more precise use of pesti- more choices in sustainable weed
cides, and allowing for use of management, and can select
• Biotechnology and other precision
more environmentally friendly herbicides that break down more
agricultural technologies (e.g., con-
herbicides.44,45 rapidly and therefore have less
servation tillage, integrated pest
impact on the environment than
management [IPM], and automated o From 1996-2011, biotech crops
older herbicides.21
farming equipment systems using have collectively reduced global
computerized GPS [global position- pesticide applications by 1.04 o Since crops were first domes-
ing system] technology) help to billion pounds of the active ticated centuries ago, insects,
increase the amount of food that ingredient.50 weeds, and plant diseases have
can be harvested per acre of land adapted to farmers’ efforts to
o Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)
or per animal, reducing the need to manage them, whether crops are
crops are developed to target
use more and more land to feed a grown with organic, conventional,
only the insects that eat those
growing population. or biotechnology methods. New
crops, rather than honey bees or
types of herbicide-tolerant corn
and soy have been developed that
help address ongoing challenges
with herbicide resistance of cer-
tain weeds.54
• Biotechnology and good agricultural
practices improve soil quality and
reduce pollution by allowing farm-
ers to till (or mechanically work the
soil) less often or not at all.25,48
o Background Point: Tilling the
soil, done in preparation for
planting and for weed control,
can cause top soil to blow away
or harden. Hard soil does not
–8–
absorb water well, which causes

sediment, fertilizer, and chemicals
to run into ground water. Exces-
sive tillage is also less suitable
for growing healthy crops and
reduces the ability of the land to
support beneficial insects and
microorganisms living in the soil.25
o Conservation tillage, which
reduces the amount of soil
disturbance, has been widely
adopted, with 63% of all U.S. This land, as well as forests, can
farmland being treated with this continue to serve as wildlife
technique. 25,47,48,55 habitats.
“New science and technology,
o As of 2009, two-thirds (65%) of • Biotechnology reduces agriculture’s including the tools of
soybeans were being grown using “carbon footprint,” with less carbon biotechnology, will be needed
to develop crops better able
conservation tillage, resulting in released into the air and more car-
to withstand climatic stresses
a 93% decline in soil erosion, and bon retained in the soil. such as drought, heat and
preserving an estimated 1 billion flooding. Such research will also
o Improved weed control with
tons of top soil.47 contribute to helping the world
herbicide-tolerant crops allows prepare for future production
o A practice known as “no-till farm- farmers to leave residue from effects anticipated from global
ing”, which eliminates soil tillage, harvested crops on the ground, warming.”
has increased 35% since the trapping carbon in the soil.47 Norman Borlaug, plant scientist
introduction of biotechnology. and Nobel Peace Prize winner.
o Carbon emissions from fuel use Wall Street Journal, 2007.
It is more easily adopted with
are lower on farms that use bio-
herbicide-tolerant crops because
technology, as the ability to ap-
they eliminate or greatly reduce
ply pesticides and till less often
the need to till for weed control.
means that farmers do not have
o Since the introduction of her- to drive their tractors over their
bicide-tolerant soybeans, the fields as often. In 2011, result-
percentage of U.S. soybean fields ing carbon dioxide reductions
that were not tilled at all rose were estimated to be 4.19 billion
from 27 to 39%.25 pounds, equivalent to taking
800,000 cars off of the road.25,47,50
o Thanks to the ability to ap- “We believe that biotechnology
ply pesticides less often with o The adoption of both no-till and has a critical role to play
biotech crops, farmers do not conservation tillage, supported in increasing agricultural
productivity, particularly in light
have to drive their tractors over by biotechnology, has prevented
of climate change. We also
their fields as often, therefore 46.5 billion pounds of carbon believe it can help to improve the
avoiding packing and hardening dioxide from being released from nutritional value of staple foods.”
of the soil.25 the soil into the atmosphere. Hillary Rodham Clinton,
That’s like taking 9.4 million cars 67th U.S. Secretary of State
o Increased crop yields from and former Senator of New York.
off of the road.50
biotechnology reduce the need World Food Day Conference Call,
October 16, 2009.
to plant on land less suited for ag-
riculture (e.g., hilly vs. flat land).
–9–
• Biotechnology and modern farming Message Four: o Biotechnology has already been
practices strengthen the economic >> Feeding the World shown to increase yields by re-
sustainability of family farms in the ducing crop loss to pests through
Biotechnology has a role to play
U.S. and around the globe, regard- the use of herbicide-tolerant and
in ensuring that safe and abun-
less of the size of the farm.21 insect-protected crops.62
dant food can be produced on
o Biotechnology allows for re- existing farm land to meet the o Increasing yields of staple food
duced farming costs, includ- increasing needs of the world’s crops in developing nations is criti-
ing labor, pesticides, fuel, and growing population. cal to ensure that the most disad-
fertilizers. It also results in fewer vantaged people around the world
crops lost to disease; fewer have greater access to food.18,63
harvested foods lost to contami- • Biotechnology allows farmers to
• Biotechnology has the potential to
nation during transportation and harvest more food using available
strengthen crops against extreme
storage; and greater farm income farm land, vital for feeding a grow-
temperatures, drought, and poor
through higher yields and dis- ing world population.
soil conditions. These advance-
ease free crops.21
o The world population is expected ments are critical in developing
o Farmers in developing countries to increase to 9 billion people by nations, where crop losses can mean
have benefited economically the year 2050, creating global health and economic devastation.
from biotechnology through food needs that will necessitate
o Research is being conducted to
lower production costs and a an increase in food production of
develop corn, wheat, and rice
more reliable harvest.43 70%.61,62 It is important to use ex-
that can withstand changes in
isting farm land and water more
• Agricultural biotechnology efforts growing conditions brought about
efficiently, while saving other
in developing nations are being by climate change, aiming to
land for wildlife.63
pursued with the guidance of protect the food supply against
and in cooperation with the local o From 1996 to 2010, biotechnol- related declines in production
communities to ensure a positive ogy led to the addition of 97.5 and availability.18
social impact.52,56-59 million more tons of soybeans
o One-fifth of the world’s popula-
and 159.4 million more tons of
o Food security (or regular action struggles with water scar-
corn to the harvest, an increase
cess to food) is essential to a city and another one-fourth do
that was needed to meet global
nation’s overall stability. It has not have the infrastructure to
food demands.21
been suggested that increased transport water to where it is
food security, in part through
the use of biotechnology, could
help increase school attendance
(because fewer children are
needed to work on the farm and
are being encouraged to attend
school), leading to improvements
in a country’s overall infrastruc-
ture and stability.52
o Projects such as Water Efficient
Maize for Africa (WEMA) and Af-
rica Biosorghum Project are ex-
amples of biotechnology projects
led by and addressing the needs
of resource-poor farmers and
families in developing nations.58,60
–10–
needed.64 Agriculture currently o To address the issue of crippling

accounts for 70% of total global blindness and death from se-
fresh water usage.65 Biotechnol- vere VAD, two types of “Golden
ogy is being used to develop Rice” and a type of corn geneti-
drought-tolerant soybeans, corn, cally engineered to provide more
and rice, which could improve beta-carotene (which the body
food production, even when wa- uses to make vitamin A) are in
ter is scarce.66 development.40,55,68 Golden Rice
is expected to be approved in
o 25 million acres of farmland have
the Philippines by 2014. It is also
been lost to high salinity (salt
currently under review in China,
content) conditions resulting from
Vietnam, and Bangladesh.50
poor irrigation. Biotechnology is
being employed in the develop- o The Africa Biofortified Sorghum
ment of salt-tolerant crops, which Project is working to nutritionally
would thrive in salty soils.66,67 improve sorghum, one of Africa’s
most important staple crops, to
• Biotechnology scientists are seek-
address severe malnutrition. Con-
ing ways to fortify staple food crops
ventional sorghum contains no Vi-
(foods that contribute significantly
tamin A, and the minimal amounts
to a community’s intake) with key
of iron and zinc it does contain are
nutrients in order to improve over-
poorly absorbed. Sorghum also
all public health.19
has poorer protein quality than “We can help poor farmers
o Background: The WHO reports other grains. Through genetic sustainably increase their
that 190 million pre-school engineering and other advanced productivity so they can feed
children and 19 million young breeding techniques, progress themselves and their families.
pregnant women have vitamin A has been made towards increas- By doing so, they will contribute
to global food security.”
deficiency (VAD). The incidence ing sorghum’s vitamin A, iron, and
Bill Gates, co-founder, The Bill &
is highest in Asia, with more than zinc content, improving protein Melinda Gates Foundation. 2012
one-third (33.5%) of all pre- quality, and improving availability Annual Letter, January 2012.
school children having VAD.59 of nutrients to the body.58
–11–
Words to Use and Words to Lose

Biotechnology is often discussed
in scientific terms that are overly
technical for the average consumer.
Technical jargon, although accurate,
can be alarming and confusing to
the general public, leading to mis-
understandings about biotechnol-
ogy’s purpose, uses, and benefits.
Therefore, when communicating with
consumers about biotechnology, it
is important to emphasize the rela-
tionship between food and people,
and that foods produced through
biotechnology are real foods that are
grown in the ground, just like other
foods—they’ve just been enhanced
to provide additional benefits to both
farmers and consumers. Following is a list of Words to Use
and Words to Lose when commu-
An important way in which com-
nicating about food biotechnology.
municators can build trust and gain
This list draws upon IFIC’s and others’
credibility with their audiences is by
research with consumers—includ-
using simple, authentic, and relatable
ing those who are skeptical about
language. Consumer understand-
biotechnology. Words to Lose tend to
ing and acceptance of any new idea
be technical or scientific, sound unfa-
changes dramatically depending on
miliar, and evoke uncertainty, risk, or
the language used. For example,
danger. Words to Use sound familiar,
imagine being a consumer new to the
provide reassurance, and establish
topic of food biotechnology: Would
a personal connection. In the list
you be convinced it was a good idea
provided, the Words to Use appear
to have “genetically modified organ-
alongside corresponding Words to
isms” in your cereal? Not likely. It
Lose. The terms and phrases are also
would be easier to understand if you
grouped into types of words (i.e.,
were told that the vitamin content of
nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.) to aid
your cereal was increased through the
in finding an appropriate replacement
use of biotechnology, thus providing
word or phrase.
improved nutrition.
“The world must utilize the
enormous potential of
biotechnology to end hunger.”
George W. Bush, President of
the United States. G-7/8 Summit,
July 22, 2001.
–12–
Examples of Words to Use and Words to Lose

When possible and accurate, Words to Use should be chosen over Words to Lose. When necessary to use Words to Lose,
provide necessary context to ensure understanding.
Words To Use Words To Lose

definitely possibly, maybe
better, good genetic, perfect
enhanced genetically altered
crop protection pesticides
high-quality, fresher longer chemical, transgenic, long shelf life, preserved
adjectives
natural, green scientific, chemical
nourishing, childhood nutrition, wholesome, nutritional value vitamin-enriched/fortified
plentiful, organic insect/drought-resistant, pesticides
safe, high-quality may have, may contain
sustainable, responsible profitable, economy, exploitative
ideal, enhanced, using traditional farming techniques experimental, revolutionary, improved
ancestors, tradition dna, change

biotechnology, biology gmo, genetically modified
bounty, harvest crop yield, resistance
best seeds, crops, agriculture plant breeding, trait selection, pesticides, organisms
nouns choices, sustainability cost savings, efficiency
commitment, inspired scientific advancements, technology
community, us/we customers, consumers, you
farms, farming, growers, farmers/producers technology, scientists, industry
fruits, vegetables, fresh produce organisms
care, committing to cost

verbs discover, grow experiment, splice
support, empower, choose separate
all foods are grown to provide the best for the planet and your family economies of scale, profitable, large-scale
feed the world, developing countries genetic engineering, “third world” countries
offer the choice to support a greener world dangerous to the environment
not a direct danger to human health; most research has not
themes provide safe, healthful, sustainable crops
found an adverse effect
safer pesticides applied more judiciously transgenic, engineering, insect resistance
support whole health, eradicate hunger, reducing malnutrition produce food more efficiently
together, our, for the planet you, me
To communicate with impact (see Tips for Communicating with Impact in Chapter 3), your words must be
uniquely yours. The intent of these lists is to raise your awareness of words that have been found to evoke nega-
Note: tive or positive reactions from consumers. Although Words to Lose may sometimes be necessary, an understand-
ing of their potential impact on certain groups will aid in more productive conversations with those groups.
–13–
References 12. FDA. Guidance for industry: Use of 24. Brookes G. The impact of using GM
animal clones and clone progeny for human insect resistant maize in Europe since 1998.
1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration food and animal feed. 2008; http://www. International Journal of Biotechnology.
(FDA). Genetically engineered plants fda.gov/downloads/AnimalVeterinary/ 2008;10:148-166.
for food and feed. 2012; http://www. GuidanceComplianceEnforcement/
fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/ GuidanceforIndustry/UCM052469.pdf. 25. Conservation Technology Information
GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/ Center (CTIC). Facilitating conservation
Biotechnology/ucm096126.htm. 13. FDA. Animal cloning. 2010; http://www. farming practices and enhancing environmental
fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ sustainability with agricultural biotechnology.
2. American Medical Association. AnimalCloning/default.htm. CTIC, West Lafayette, IN: 2010.
Bioengineered (genetically engineered) crops
and foods. 2012; https://ssl3.ama-assn.org/apps/ 14. FDA. Bovine Somatotropin. 2011; http:// 26. Mendoza EMT, Laurena AC, Botella JR.
ecomm/PolicyFinderForm.pl?site=www.ama- www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ Recent advances in the development of
assn.org&uri=%2fresources%2fdoc%2fPolicyFi ProductSafetyInformation/ucm055435.htm. transgenic papaya technology. In: El-Gewely
nder%2fpolicyfiles%2fHnE%2fH-480.958.HTM. MR, ed. Biotechnology Annual Review. Vol
15. Rommens C, Yan H, Swords K, Richael 14: Elsevier; 2008:423-462.
3. Center for Science in the Public Interest. C, Ye J. Low-acrylamide French fries and
Straight talk on genetically engineered potato chips. Plant Biotechnol Journal. 27. Scorza R, Ravelonandro M. Control of
foods. 2012. 2008;6(8):843-853. plum pox virus through the use of genetically
modified plants. OEPP/EPPO Bulletin.
4. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 16. International Food Information Council 2006;36:337–340.
(EPA). United States Regulatory Agencies (IFIC) Foundation. Questions and answers
Unified Biotechnology Website. 2012; http:// about food biotechnology. 2011; http:// 28. USDA, Agricultural Research Services
usbiotechreg.epa.gov/usbiotechreg/. www.foodinsight.org/Resources/Detail. (ARS). HoneySweet plum trees: A transgenic
aspx?topic=Questions_and_Answers_About_ answer to the plum pox problem. 2009; http://
5. Massengale RD. Biotechnology: Going Food_Biotechnology. www.ars.usda.gov/is/br/plumpox/.
beyond GMOs. Food Technology. November
2010:30-35. 17. Lehrer SB, Bannon GA. Risks of 29. Tollefson J. Brazil cooks up transgenic bean.
allergic reactions to biotech proteins in Nature. 2011;Oct 12;478(7368):168.
6. United States Department of Agriculture foods: Perception and reality. Allergy.
(USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection 2005;60(5):559-564. 30. Rajasekaran K, Cary JW, Cleveland
Service (APHIS). Questions and answers: TE. Prevention of preharvest aflatoxin
Okanagan Specialty Fruits’ non-browning 18. Newell-McGloughlin M. Nutritionally contamination through genetic engineering of
apple (Events GD743 and GS784). 2012; improved agricultural crops. Plant Physiology. crops. Mycotox Res. 2006;22(2):118-124.
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/publications/ 2008;147:939–953.
31. Gonsalves D. Virus-resistant transgenic
biotechnology/2012/faq_okanagan_apple.pdf.
19. United Nations University, Institute papaya helps save Hawaiian industry.
7. World Health Organization (WHO). of Advanced Studies. Food and nutrition California Agriculture 2004; 58(2):92-93.
Modern Biotechnology, Human Health, and biotechnology: Achievements, prospects and
perceptions. 2005. 32. Crawford AW, Wang C, Jenkins DJ, Lemke
Development: An evidence-based study. 2005;
SL. Estimated effect on fatty acid intake of
http://www.who.int/foodsafety/biotech/who_
20. IFIC. Consumer Perceptions of Food substituting a low-saturated, high-oleic, low-
study/en/index.html.
Technology Survey. 2012; http://www. linolenic soybean oil for liquid oils. Nutrition
8. USDA, APHIS. Biotechnology. 2012; http:// foodinsight.org/Resources/Detail.aspx?topic= Today. 2011;46(4):189-196.
www.aphis.usda.gov/biotechnology/. 2012ConsumerPerceptionsofTechnologySurvey.
33. Mermelstein NH. Improving soybean oil.
9. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) 21. Brookes G, Barfoot P. Global impact of Food Technology. August 2010; 72-76.
of the United Nations. FAO statement on biotech crops: Environmental effects, 1996–
2010. GM Crops and Food: Biotechnology 34. Tarrago-Trani MT, Phillips KM, Lemar LE,
biotechnology. 2000; http://www.fao.org/
in Agriculture and the Food Chain. Holden JM. New and existing oils and fats
biotech/fao-statement-on-biotechnology/en/.
2012;3(2):129-137. used in products with reduced trans-fatty acid
10. FDA. Genetically engineered animals. content. Journal of the American Dietetic
2012; http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/ 22. Gianessi L, Sankula S, Reigner N. Plant Association. 2006;106(6):867-880.
DevelopmentApprovalProcess/ biotechnology: Potential impact for improving
pest management in European agriculture. 35. Damude H, Kinney A. Enhancing plant seed
GeneticEngineering/
The National Center for Food and Agricultural oils for human Nutrition Plant Physiology.
GeneticallyEngineeredAnimals/default.htm.
Policy, Washington, DC: 2003. 2008;147(3):962-968.
11. FDA. Regulation of genetically engineered
23. Giddings LV, Chassy BM. Igniting 36. DiRienzo MA, Lemke SL, Petersen BJ,
animals. 2012; http://www.fda.gov/
agricultural innovation: Biotechnology policy Smith KM. Effect of substitution of high stearic
ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm048106.
prescriptions for a new administration. Science low linolenic acid soybean oil for hydrogenated
htm.
Progress. 2009; http://scienceprogress. soybean oil on fatty acid intake. Lipids.
org/2009/07/igniting-agricultural-innovation/. 2008;43(5):451-456.
–14–
37. Lichtenstein AH, Matthan NR, Jalbert 48. Fawcett R, Towery D. Conservation tillage 60. African Agricultural Technology
SM, Resteghini NA, Schaefer EJ, Ausman and plant biotechnology: How new technologies Foundation. Water Efficient Maize for
LM. Novel soybean oils with different fatty can improve the environment by reducing the Africa (WEMA). http://wema.aatf-africa.org/
acid profiles alter cardiovascular disease risk need to plow. CTIC, West Lafayette, IN:2002. about-wema-project.
factors in moderately hyperlipidemic subjects.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 49. Capper JL, Castañeda-Gutiérrez E, 61. Food and Agriculture Organization
2006;84(3):497-504. Cady RA, Bauman DE. The environmental (FAO) of the United Nations. Feed the world,
impact of recombinant bovine somatotropin eradicating hunger. Paper presented at: World
38. Lai L, Kang JX, Li. R., et al. Generation (rbST) use in dairy production. PNAS. Summit on Food Security. 2009.
of cloned transgenic pigs rich in omega-3 2008;105(28):9668-9673.
fatty acids. Nature Biotechnology. 62. Godfray H, Beddington J, Crute I, et al.
2006;24(4):435-436. 50. James C. Global status of commercialized Food security: The challenge of feeding 9 billion
biotech/GM crops. ISAAA Brief No. 44. Ithaca, people. Science. 2010;327(5967):812-818.
39. Wu X, Ouyang H, Duan B, et al. Production NY: ISAAA; 2012.
of cloned transgenic cow expressing 63. Edgerton MD. Increasing crop productivity
omega-3 fatty acids. Transgenic Research. 51. Pray CE, Huang J., Hu R., Rozelle S. to meet global needs for feed, food, and fuel.
2012;21(3):537-543. Five years of Bt cotton in China—the Plant Physiology. 2009;149(1):7-13.
benefits continue. The Plant Journal.
40. Floros JD, Newsome R, Fisher W, et al. 2002;31(4):423-430. 64. United Nations Department of Economic
Feeding the world today and tomorrow: The and Social Affairs (UNDESA). Water scarcity.
importance of food science and technology. 52. Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. 2010; http://www.un.org/waterforlifedecade/
An IFT scientific review. Comprehensive Agricultural Development: Strategy scarcity.shtml.
Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety. Overview. 2013; http://www.gatesfoundation.
org/What-We-Do/Global-Development/ 65. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
2010;9:572-599. of the United Nations. Coping with water
Agricultural-Development.
41. International Service For the Acquisition of scarcity: An action framework for agriculture
Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA). Pocket K 53. Hutchison WD, Burkness EC, Mitchell and food safety. FAO, Rome:2012.
No. 12: Delayed ripening technology. ISAAA, PD, et al. Areawide suppression of
European corn borer with Bt maize reaps 66. Newell-McGloughlin M. Transgenic
Manila: 2004. Crops, Next Generation. In: Meyers RA,
savings to non-Bt maize growers. Science
42. Petition for determination of nonregulated 2010;330(6001):222-225. ed. Encyclopedia of Sustainability
status: ArcticTM Apple (Malus x domestica); Science and Technology. Vol 15. New York:
Events GD743 and GS784. 2012; http://www. 54. National Research Council of the National Springer Science + Business Media, LLC;
aphis.usda.gov/brs/aphisdocs/10_16101p.pdf. Academies. National Summit on Strategies 2012:10732-10765.
to Manage Herbicide-Resistant Weeds:
43. Park JR, McFarlane I, Phipps RH, Ceddia Proceedings of a Symposium. The National 67. Owens S. Salt of the Earth: Genetic
G. The role of transgenic crops in sustainable Academies Press, Washington, DC: 2012. engineering may help to reclaim agricultural
development. Plant Biotechnology Journal. land lost due to salinisation. EMBO Reports.
2011;9:2-21. 55. USDA, Agricultural Research Services 2001;2(10):877-879.
(ARS). Improving rice, a staple crop worldwide.
44. Osteen C, Gottlieb J, Vasavada U, (eds.). Agricultural Research Magazine. May/June 68. International Rice Research Institute
Agricultural resources and environmental 2010; 58(5):4-7. (IRRI). Golden Rice Project. 2012;
indicators, 2012. EIB-98, USDA, Economic http://www.irri.org/goldenrice/.
Research Service (ERS), August 2012. 56. African Agricultural Technology
Foundation. 2012; http://www.aatf-africa.org/.
45. USDA, Economic Research Service (ERS).
Pesticide use & markets. November 2012; 57. International Institute of Tropical
http://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/farm- Agriculture. 2012; http://www.iita.org/.
practices-management/chemical-inputs/ 58. Africa Biofortified Sorghum (ABS) Project.
pesticide-use-markets.aspx. ABS project: Technology development. 2012;
46. National Research Council. Impact http://biosorghum.org/abs_tech.php.
of genetically engineered crops on farm 59. World Health Organization (WHO).
sustainability in the United States. The National Global prevalence of vitamin A deficiency in
Academies Press, Washington, DC: 2010. populations at risk 1995–2005: WHO global
47. Council for Agricultural Science and database on vitamin A deficiency. 2009;
Technology. U.S. soybean production http://www.who.int/vmnis/database/vitamina/
sustainability: A comparative analysis. Special x/en/index.html.
Publication 30. April 2009.
–15–
3
PRESENTATION
• Preparing the Presentation
• Tips for Communicating with Impact
• Answering Tough Questions
• PowerPoint Presentation
available online only:
Preparing the Presentation

This chapter will provide Tips for Communicating with Impact, which
will guide not only how you phrase your messages, but also how you prepare
for media interviews, presentations, and any other dialogue on food biotech-
nology. You will see the Tips again and again throughout the Guide—they
are that important!
In addition, “The Role of Biotech- A successful presentation, interview,

nology in Our Food Supply” pre- or even a discussion about biotechnol- “There is now a clear scientific
sentation has been developed to help ogy over the dinner table isn’t over consensus that GE crops and
ecological farming practices
you discuss food biotechnology with until you’ve effectively addressed the can coexist—and if we are
the public. It communicates the latest questions that are raised. Thought serious about building a future
information available, and is highly provoking questions may be asked, sustainable agriculture, they
visual to help engage your listeners. and some may be emotionally driven must.”
In the Notes Pages of the PowerPoint, or based on personal values and Pam Ronald, co-author,
“Tomorrow’s Table: Organic
you will find key points for each slide beliefs. Included in this chapter are
Farming, Genetics and the Future
to use during your presentation (see a few suggestions for Answering of Food.” Economist Debate on
sidebar for website address).* Tough Questions, using the Tips for Biotechnology, 2010.
Communicating with Impact.
*We understand you may prefer to use one or a few slides from “The Role of Biotechnology
in Our Food Supply” presentation, adding them to your own presentation. If you choose to
do so, we just ask that you please cite the IFIC Foundation as the source for the information,
and that you not change the information as it appears on the slide.
–17–
3 Presentation Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition
Tips for them. Anticipate questions that

your audience is likely to raise.
Communicating Evaluate aspects of your presen-
tation that could lead to questions
with Impact and address these proactively by
1. Relate as a person, as well as embedding the rebuttal informa-
a professional. tion within your presentation.
Talk about yourself as a person 4. Be straightforward, clear,
who has interests besides your and concise.
career. This includes family, hob- Answer the question without
bies, interests, etc. Share your repeating negative terms or
professional expertise, as well, phrases. Correct misinterpreta-
as this is also a part of who you tions of something you said or
are as an individual with a story assumptions you don’t share.
to share. 5. Be confident in handling
2. Show empathy for others and questions.
“I am a passionate believer in that you care about the issue. Ensure that all discussants have
the power of biotechnology Don’t just recite facts and statis- an opportunity to participate by
to boost food production and tics. People need to know that responding succinctly, breaking
fight hunger and poverty in the you care, before they will care eye contact and moving away
developing world.”
about what you know. Be honest from the questioner, then ask-
Dr. Florence Wambugu, Founder
of Africa Harvest and plant
and open, which will establish ing if others have questions. Be
pathologist. Submitted to the and support your credibility and prepared to ask and answer a
Committee on Agriculture United likability with the audience. question that relates to your key
States House of Representatives
on March 26, 2003. 3. Know your audience and pre- presentation points. Finally, know
pare accordingly. when it is time to end the ques-
Make your information relevant tion and answer period, encour-
to the audience and incorporate aging those with more questions
analogies that will resonate for to talk with you after the session.
–18–
Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition Presentation 3
Answering Tough Tough Question:

Isn’t there an inherent danger
Tough Question:
Shouldn’t GMO foods be labeled
Questions in genetically altering foods to so consumers know what’s in
be something that nature could their food?
Following are examples of some of never create?
the most common tough questions Response:
that arise about food biotechnology Response: Having access to sound nutrition
and suggested responses, along with I appreciate your concern. While and safety information about food is
examples to elaborate and add sup- it may not seem natural, in real- something I’m very interested in as
port to the responses. It is important ity, all crops have been “genetically a [parent/grandparent/someone con-
that you tailor your response to your modified” from their original state cerned about my health]. Thankfully,
expertise, as well as personal experi- by domestication, selection, and tra- the FDA has labeling requirements
ence and background. Science-based ditional breeding over thousands of for all foods, including biotech foods.
references have also been provided years. Farmers have practiced selec- A biotech product must be labeled
for those listeners who want to know tive breeding, choosing plants and if its nutritional content or composi-
the source(s) of your information. seeds with preferred characteristics, tion has changed or a food safety
and saving them to plant for the next issue, like the potential for allergies,
Note: While the following ques- season. As more scientific know-how has been identified. Labeling would
tions are worded in a manner became available, farmers began include all nutritional changes or
that may seem confrontational cross-breeding plants to produce har- food safety issues. Most consumers
or challenging, it is important to vests that would have more desirable report being satisfied with this FDA
remain focused on the Tips for traits such as juicier, tastier varieties policy, according to a survey by the
Communicating with Impact. It and better yields. Biotechnology is International Food Information Coun-
is also important to avoid repeat- just the latest advance in breeding, cil. Because foods produced through
ing inflammatory language. an extension of the food develop- biotechnology are indistinguishable
ment process that has given us new from conventional foods (unless they
foods with appealing traits more meet the above criteria), labeling of
precisely than can be done through the production method used (e.g.,
traditional breeding.1 biotechnology) could turn consumers’
attention away from more important
Example:
nutrition and food safety information
Corn’s wild ancestor is a Mexican
on the label.4,5
grass called teosinte, with a tiny
single row of just a dozen kernels Example:
wrapped inside a rock-hard casing. Producers may label a product as
Selective breeding and cross-breeding “non-GE” as long as the food does
over time has led to the development not contain any ingredients produced
of modern maize with increased cob through biotechnology. Also, USDA-
length and number of kernel rows, certified organic products contain 95%
juiciness and size, amounts of starch, or more organic ingredients. By defini-
and the ability to grow in different cli- tion, organic products do not contain
mates and types of soil.2,3 ingredients from genetic engineering;
therefore, those wishing to avoid bio-
tech foods have these options.
–19–
Tough Question: Example: to reproduce; possible presence of

Aren’t you making exaggerated Biotechnology has already signifi- weeds; and equipment used to plant,
claims about the role of GM crops cantly reduced the release of green- harvest, and transport seeds. Farm-
in alleviating world hunger? house gas emissions from agriculture ers test crops regularly to ensure
by reducing use of fossil fuels. In crop integrity.11-13
Response:
2011, carbon dioxide reductions due
While I wish there was a magic bul- Example:
to less fossil fuels used on farms were
let to solving world hunger, we know The co-existence of different kinds
estimated to be 4.19 billion pounds,
there isn’t. What we do know is that of crops has been accomplished
equivalent to taking 800,000 cars off
biotechnology is one tool, among oth- through sensible farming practices
of the road. In addition, with the use
ers, that we can use to help address such as growing different crops far
of rbST, a genetically engineered
hunger and malnutrition around the enough away from each other, tim-
protein hormone given to dairy cows,
world. ing the planting of crops to maintain
five cows can produce the same
distinct growing seasons, and most
Example: amount of milk that once took six
importantly, communication between
It will be important to use all avail- cows, using less feed and reducing
neighboring farmers.13
able food production techniques in greenhouse gas emissions.9,10
order to meet the future world food
needs of 9 billion by 2050. If technol- Tough Question:
ogy is not leveraged to improve our Are there any long-term studies
efficiency and grow more food on the on the health effects of geneti-
same amount of land, the increased cally modified foods? I’m con-
demand will likely force prices up and cerned that these foods haven’t
lead to food shortages, especially in been tested enough.
developing countries.6-8 Response:
It is understandable that people do
Tough Question: not want to potentially put their
Rather than helping the envi- families or themselves at risk. As a
ronment, won’t biotechnology [parent/grandparent/someone who
actually cause unforeseen envi- is concerned about my health], the
ronmental issues? safety of our food is of the utmost
importance to me. What’s reassuring
Response: to keep in mind is that people have
It sounds like protecting the envi- been selectively breeding plants and
ronment is important to you. It’s animals pretty much since we moved
important to me, too, as well as the out of caves, changing their genetic
scientists who develop biotech seeds Tough Question: profile all the while, with no adverse
and the farmers who plant them. Won’t biotech crops contaminate health effects. On the contrary, our
What we know about agricultural organic and conventional crops, food is safer and more nutritious than
biotechnology is that it has helped compromising seed integrity? it was 2,000 years ago.
reduce insecticide use and soil ero-
sion, and improved water quality on Response: There is broad scientiﬁc consensus
farms, all of which are good for the While it seems like this would be an that foods produced through bio-
environment. And by increasing pro- issue, seed producers have devel- technology that are currently on the
duction on arable land, there is less oped guidelines and best practices market are safe to eat. Food biotech
need to encroach on new territories, for quality control and seed purity products are more strictly regulated
thus limiting the loss of biodiversity to ensure this does not happen. than any other food to date and, in
and natural habitats, such as rainfor- The guidelines take into account nearly two decades of extensive gov-
ests, for wildlife. the movement of pollen with wind ernmental, academic, and industry
and insects; how plants use pollen oversight, not a single instance of harm
–20–
Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition Presentation 3
to health, safety, or the environment multiple and redundant biological,

has ever been confirmed from any bio- physical, and environmental barriers
tech crop placed on the market.14-17 to escape. As an added precaution,
the salmon are all sterile females.
Example:
They are raised far from native wild
The international scientific com-
salmon and do not threaten wild
munity, including the World Health
salmon species. Land-based facilities
Organization, Food and Agriculture
also have a smaller environmental
Organization of the United Nations,
footprint than the ocean net pens
and American Medical Association
used in conventional salmon farming.
have all examined the health and
environmental safety of biotech The proposed biotech salmon is able
crops and concluded that these to reach market size more quickly
foods are safe for human and animal without affecting its other qualities,
consumption.14-17 making it possible to grow more fish
using less feed than conventional
salmon. Currently awaiting commer-
Tough Question:
cial approval in the United States, it “Because there are so many
Isn’t genetically engineered
is a more environmentally sustainable hungry and suffering people,
salmon harmful to our oceans and
way to farm salmon.18 particularly in Africa, attacks on
waterways and a threat to wild science and biotechnology are
salmon? The health benefits of eating fish high especially pernicious.”
in healthy omega-3s fats, such as Jimmy Carter, Former President
Response: of the United States, Wall Street
salmon, are well known. As salmon
I want to ensure nature is protected, Journal, October 14, 2005.
from natural sources declines, con-
just as you do. The fast-growing fish
ventional farm-raised fish are already
produced through biotechnology, if
an important source of the heart-
allowed onto the market, would be
healthy salmon we currently enjoy.19
grown in inland tank facilities, with
–21–
References 7. Chassy B, Hlywka J, Kleter G, Kok E, Kuiper 14. U.S. Food and Drug Administration
H, et al. Nutritional and Safety Assessments (FDA). Genetically engineered plants for food
1. Wieczorek AM, Wright MG. History of Foods and Feeds Nutritionally Improved and feed. 2012; http://www.fda.gov/Food/
of agricultural biotechnology: How crop through Biotechnology. Comprehensive FoodScienceResearch/Biotechnology/.
development has evolved. Nature Education Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety.
Knowledge. 2012;3(10):9. 15. American Medical Association.
2008;7:50-113.
Bioengineered (genetically engineered) crops
2. International Rice Research Institute and 8. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and foods. 2012; https://ssl3.ama-assn.org/
International Maize and Wheat Improvement of the United Nations. The State of Food apps/ecomm/PolicyFinderForm.pl?site=www.
Center. Teosinte– Maize’s wild ancestor. Cereal Insecurity in the World. 2012; http://www.fao. ama-assn.org&uri=%2fresources%2fdoc%2fPo
Knowledge Bank website. 2007; http://www. org/docrep/016/i3027e/i3027e00.htm. licyFinder%2fpolicyfiles%2fHnE%2fH-480.958.
knowledgebank.irri.org/ckb/extras-maize/ HTM.
teosinte-maizes-wild-ancestor.html. 9. Brookes G, Barfoot P. GM crops: Global
socio-economic and environmental 16. World Health Organization. Modern
3. Wang H, Nussbaum-Wagler T, Li B, Zhao impacts 1996-2010. PG Economics Ltd. Biotechnology, Human Health, and
Q, Vigourous Y, et al. The origin of the naked May 2012; www.pgeconomics.co.uk/ Development: An evidence-based study. 2005;
grains of maize. Nature. 2012;436:714-19. pdf/2012globalimpactstudyfinal.pdf. http://www.who.int/foodsafety/publications/
4. McHughen, A. Labeling genetically modified biotech/biotech_en.pdf.
10. International Service for the Acquisition
(GM) foods. Agricultural Biotechnology of Agri-biotech Applications, SEAsia Center. 17. FAO of the United Nations. FAO statement
website. June 22, 2008; http://www. Agricultural biotechnology (a lot more than on biotechnology. 2000; http://www.fao.org/
agribiotech.info/details/McHugen-Labeling%20 just GM crops). August 2010; http://www. biotech/fao-statement-on-biotechnology/en/.
sent%20to%20web%2002.pdf. isaaa.org/resources/publications/agricultural_
18. FDA, Center for Veterinary Medicine.
5. International Food Information Council. biotechnology/download/agricultural_
AquAdvantage® Salmon Draft Environmental
Consumer Perceptions of Food Technology biotechnology.pdf.
Assessment. May 4, 2012; http://www.
Survey. May 2012; http://www.foodinsight.org/ 11. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), fda.gov/downloads/AnimalVeterinary/
Resources/Detail.aspx?topic=2012ConsumerP Agricultural Marketing Service, National DevelopmentApprovalProcess/
erceptionsofTechnologySurvey. Organic Program. Organic Production and GeneticEngineering/
6. Alexandratos N, Bruinsma J. World Handling Standards. Updated February 5, GeneticallyEngineeredAnimals/UCM333102.
agriculture towards 2030/2050: The 2012 2013; http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/nop. pdf.
revision. Food and Agriculture Organization of 12. American Seed Trade Association. 19. Kris-Etherton P, Harris W, Appel L. Fish
the United Nations. June 2012; http://www.fao. Existing U.S. Seed Industry Production Consumption, Fish Oil, Omega-3 Fatty Acids,
org/docrep/016/ap106e/ap106e.pdf. Practices that Address Coexistence. June and Cardiovascular Disease. Circulation.
2011. http://www.amseed.org/pdfs/ASTA- 2002;106:2747-57.
CoexistenceProductionPractices.pdf
13. USDA Advisory Committee on

Biotechnology and 21st Century Agriculture
(AC21). Enhancing Coexistence: A Report
of the AC21 to the Secretary of Agriculture.
November 19, 2012; www.usda.gov/documents/
ac21_report-enhancing-coexistence.pdf
–22–
4
PRESENTATION
HANDOUTS
• Facts about Food Biotechnology
• Food Biotechnology Timeline
“The biggest innovations of

Presentation Handouts the twenty-first century will
be the intersection of biology
This section contains materials for your audience to take away after your and technology. A new era is
beginning.”
presentation. They complement what you will present, reinforcing key points
Steve Jobs to biographer Walter
and addressing a broader range of topics than you may have time to cover. Isaacson, 2011.
Please also print copies of the Glossary and/or other sections of the Guide,
depending on what would be most useful to your audience.
Keep in mind that these handouts may also be useful when talking to indi-
vidual patients or students who have raised questions about biotechnology,
or in meetings with other community members.
Go to www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx to download these handouts
for printing, as well as view the reference list with direct links.
“The past 50 years have been the most

productive period in global agricultural
history, leading to the greatest
reduction in hunger the world has ever
seen … However, agricultural science
is increasingly under attack.”
Jimmy Carter, Former President
of the United States,Wall Street Journal,
October 14, 2005.
–23–
Presentation Handout www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx
Facts about Food Biotechnology

Fact: It is safe to consume foods farmers choice and flexibility. It also duced. Special labeling of foods is
produced through biotechnology. allows them to reduce soil tillage, required if: a major food allergen is
Numerous studies conducted over the protecting soil quality, reducing water introduced; the nutritional content
past three decades have supported pollution, and reducing agriculture’s of the food has changed; or there are
the safety of foods produced through carbon footprint for generations to any other substantial changes to the
biotechnology, and consumers have come. Thanks in part to biotechnol- food’s composition.
been eating biotech foods safely ogy, farmers are able to use less
since 1996, with no evidence of harm insecticide. Fact: Foods produced through
demonstrated anywhere in the world. plant biotechnology are widely
Consuming foods produced through Fact: The regulation of foods grown and consumed both in the
biotechnology is safe for children, as produced through biotechnology U.S. and worldwide.
well as women who are pregnant or is coordinated by the FDA, EPA, In 2012, 17.3 million farmers in 28
nursing. In addition, a broad range and USDA to ensure the safety of countries grew biotech crops on 420.8
of scientists, regulators, health pro- the U.S. food supply. million acres. Notably, more than 15
fessionals, and health organizations In 1993, FDA determined that cur- million of those farmers were small,
agree that it is safe to consume foods rently available food and animal feed resource-poor farmers in develop-
produced through biotechnology. derived from biotechnology are safe. ing countries. U.S. farmers planted
Some examples include, the World These foods are held to the same 171.7 million acres of biotechnology
Health Organization (WHO), Food rigorous safety standards as all other varieties of soybeans, maize (corn),
and Agriculture Organization of the foods. Furthermore, FDA, EPA, and cotton, sugar beet, canola, squash,
United Nations (FAO), American USDA coordinate regulation, including papaya, and alfalfa. Both whole foods
Medical Association (AMA), U.S. early food safety assessment, field tri- and ingredients derived from biotech
Food and Drug Administration als, labeling, and more. crops became available in the U.S. in
(FDA), U.S. Environmental Protec- the 1990’s. It is estimated that 70% of
tion Agency (EPA), and the U.S. Fact: Biotechnology has pre- U.S. grocery shelves are stocked with
Department of Agriculture (USDA). vented entire food crops from foods that contain ingredients from
being destroyed by pests or crops grown with biotechnology, such
Fact: Agricultural technolo- disease. as soybeans, corn, and canola. Whole
gies, including biotechnology, are When there was simply no other solu- foods are also available, including
currently providing benefits to tion to the plant diseases destroying sweet corn genetically engineered to
consumers, farmers, and the envi- them, biotechnology was used to be protected from insects, and papaya
ronment worldwide. develop plums and Hawaiian papaya protected from papaya ringspot virus.
Hardier, disease-free crops keep protected from viruses that threaten
prices stable for consumers and these crops. Scientists are now work- Fact: The use of biotechnology
ensure a reliable supply of nutritious, ing to leverage biotechnology against itself does not cause food aller-
wholesome foods. In developing extreme climate conditions such as gies or increase the potential for
nations, where a failed crop means drought, which is of increasing con- a food to cause an allergic reac-
the farmer cannot buy food and other cern with climate change. tion or a new food allergy.
essentials for his or her family, bio- During FDA’s extensive review of a
technology has helped improve crop Fact: Consumers are informed new biotech food product, the pres-
quality and consistency. In addition, through labeling requirements ence of any of the major food aller-
herbicide-tolerant crops allow for bet- for all foods, including those pro- gens (milk, eggs, wheat, fish, shellfish,
ter weed management, which gives duced through biotechnology. tree nuts, soy, or peanuts) would trig-
The FDA requires labeling based
on the nutrition and safety of the
food, rather than how it was pro-
ger extensive testing. If the product Fact: With so much discussion of Fact: Biotechnology increases
were ever permitted in the food sup- antibiotics in animal agriculture, the amount of food that can be
ply, it would require special allergen it is important to note that there produced on the same amount
labeling to alert allergic consumers. is no association between foods of land.
produced through biotechnology It is estimated that the world popu-
Fact: Foods from biotechnology and resistance to antibiotics. lation will reach 9 billion people by
are just as nutritious as conven- FDA-approved antibiotics are avail- the year 2050, which would increase
tional foods, and some are higher able to farmers through livestock vet- food needs by 70%. Biotechnology
in certain nutrients. erinarians to help prevent and treat will need to be a part of the solu-
Independent, peer-reviewed research, disease in farm animals. Antibiotic tion, as it encourages sustainable
as well as regulatory review, has con- use on the farm is closely regulated farm practices to protect precious
firmed that current foods developed to ensure safety for the animals and nonrenewable resources. In addition,
using biotechnology provide the for people consuming meat, milk, and herbicide-tolerant and insect- and dis-
same nutritional value as conven- eggs. In addition, a waiting period is ease-protected crops are allowed to
tional foods, except where nutritional enforced to ensure that food animals thrive through better weed and insect
improvements have been made, such are clear of any antibiotics before control, allowing farmers to harvest a
as cooking oils that deliver more entering the food supply. greater quantity of healthy, damage-
healthful fats. free crops. Also in development are
Fact: Biotech, conventional, crops that can grow even in regions
Fact: Animal biotechnology, such and organic crops can coexist. where water is scarce, or where soil
as genetic engineering and clon- The potential for pollen to travel and and water contain high levels of salt.
ing, is a safe way to produce fish, transfer traits from one plant to the
meat, milk, or eggs. next is the same with biotech, con-
Animal biotechnology includes a ventional, or organic agriculture. Mul- SELECT REFERENCES
number of advanced breeding prac- tiple field trials have been performed AMA. Position: Bioengineered (genetically
tices, as well as products such as the by researchers in industry, govern- engineered) crops and foods. 2012;
protein hormone given to dairy cows, ment, and academia to determine www.ama-assn.org.
recombinant bovine somatotropin acceptable distances between biotech Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
(rbST). The safety of milk and other and other crops in order to preserve Why the Foundation funds research
dairy products from cows given rbST in crop biotechnology. 2012;
the unique attributes of different www.gatesfoundation.org.
has been established and reinforced crops and agricultural techniques.
through decades of research. Meat Brookes G, Barfoot P. Global impact of biotech
Neighboring farmers also talk to one crops: Environmental effects, 1996–2010.
and milk from animal clones have another and plan so as to minimize GM Crops and Food: Biotechnology
been determined by the FDA to be cross-pollination. in Agriculture and the Food Chain.
as safe as and identical to meat and 2012;3(2):129-137.
milk derived from other animals. Food Fact: Biotechnology does not FAO of the United Nations. FAO statement on
from genetically engineered animals is increase the prevalence of “super biotechnology. 2012; www.fao.org.
not currently available to consumers, weeds.” U.S. Regulatory Agencies Unified
but federal regulators have a process Insects and weeds can become toler- Biotechnology Website. 2012;
http://usbiotechreg.epa.gov/usbiotechreg/.
in place to evaluate their safety on a ant to any pest control technique,
case by case basis. Examples include whether used in biotechnology, WHO. Modern Biotechnology, Human Health,
and Development: An evidence-based study.
salmon enhanced to more quickly conventional, or organic agriculture. 2005; www.who.int.
grow to maturity (currently in the Many systems are in place—including
National Academy of Sciences. Impact
final stages of FDA review) and pigs crop and plant variety rotation, and of genetically engineered crops on farm
whose meat contains a higher propor- integrated pest management—to dis- sustainability in the United States. The National
tion of omega-3 fats. courage bugs and weeds from devel- Academies Press, Washington, DC: 2010.
oping resistance, and to address such See www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx
problems as they arise. for referenced articles and direct links.
Food Biotechnology Timeline

The following timeline shows the progression of food biotechnology from the earliest do-
mestication of crops and animals to modern, efficient methods of selecting and producing
plants and animals with the most desirable qualities. These dates are benchmarks of scien-
tific and regulatory breakthroughs and highlight the important role of food biotechnology, a
modern way of improving crops, food, and animals.
8500–5500 B.C. People begin to settle in 1800 B.C. The Babylonians improve the quality
one place and raise plants and animals; the best of of date palms by pollinating female trees with pollen
their crop is saved to use as seed the next year. from male trees with desirable characteristics.
1863 From observing pea plants in a 1875 The first higher-yield,

garden, renowned scientist Mendel concludes hardier wheat-rye hybrid grain
that certain “unseen particles” (later described is created.
as genes) pass traits from parents to offspring
in a predictable way—the laws of heredity begin
to be understood.
1953 The structure of DNA is described by 1973 Scientists Cohen and Boyer
Watson and Crick. successfully transfer genetic material
from one organism to another.
1961 USDA
registers Bacillus 1986 EPA approves commercial growing of the first
thuringiensis (Bt) as genetically engineered crop—tobacco plants resistant
the first biopesticide. to tobacco mosaic virus.
1992 FDA issues a policy stating that foods from

biotech plants would be regulated in the same manner
as other foods. Pre-market consultation with FDA is
encouraged, consistent with industry practice.
1993 Recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST)—

a naturally occurring protein that is reproduced using
biotechnology and used in cows to increase milk
production—is approved in the U.S.
1994 The first whole food 1998 Virus resistant papaya, developed
produced using biotechnology— through biotechnology to save the crop from
the FlavrSavr ® tomato—enters devastation, is planted in Hawaii. Insect-
the marketplace after FDA protected sweet corn is also planted.
issues its advisory opinion
on safety. Virus resistant squash
is also planted.
1999 The Enviropig™
1996 Biotech varieties of soybean, cotton, corn, is genetically engineered
canola, tomato, and potato seed are planted on in Canada to produce
4.5 million acres in Argentina, Australia, Canada, an enzyme in its saliva
China, Mexico, and the U.S. that would allow it to
get more phosphorus
1996 Dolly the sheep from its feed. This would
reduce phosphorus
is the first animal clone to
runoff into waterways.
be born.
2008 FDA releases its risk assessment 2012 Researchers

on animal clones, concluding that food from
report that the first
clones is as safe as other food.
“hypoallergenic”
cow, Daisy, has been
genetically engineered
2008 Sugar beets to remove a protein that
produced with biotechnology can trigger whey allergy
are commercialized. in humans.
2012 Biotech crops are planted on

2011 “High-oleic” soybean varieties higher 420.8 million acres by 17.3 million farmers
in 28 countries. More than 90% of farmers
in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats are
available in the U.S. planting biotech seed are small, resource-
poor farmers in developing countries.
2011 Additional whole foods

enhanced by biotechnology are
submitted for government review,
including non-browning apples, and
low-acrylamide potatoes.
Guidelines for Interacting with the Media
The Importance of Experts for Food Biotechnology Media Stories
Food biotechnology is an interesting and complex topic, and information
5
about current and potential applications for biotechnology regularly appears MEDIA TIPS
in all types of media—newspapers, radio, television, and the Internet, as well
as social media. In developing their stories, journalists are often looking for
experts on the subject to help answer questions, provide additional details,
and/or respond to challenges against foods produced through biotechnol-
ogy. These expert authorities not only provide much needed information, • Guidelines for Interacting with
but they also add balance and credibility to the story. Experts can help the Media
make the complex subject of food biotechnology more consumer-friendly • Improving Public Understanding:
by explaining scientific advancements and techniques in a way that is easily Guidelines for Communicating Emerging
understood by the general public. Science on Nutrition, Food Safety, and
Health
YOU CAN BE THE EXPERT

Developing effective media relation-
ships is one of the best ways to posi-
tion yourself as an expert on the
subject. Strong relationships with the
appropriate media representatives
also increase the likelihood that your
message or information will generate
press coverage and reach your target
audience—the public. As an author-
ity on food biotechnology, you will be
able to inform the media about the
latest advancements, correct misin-
formation, and dispel myths.
Print and online newspapers and
magazines, television, and radio included by proactively contacting
have large networks that provide the them directly and offering them your
distribution power to carry impor- expertise, before they go elsewhere to
tant information directly to your get information.
target audience. The key is to know
WHO YOU SHOULD REACH
which form(s) of media are best for
OUT TO
communicating your message, and
which media “gatekeeper” needs • Those who produce and report the
your expertise in communicating a news (editors, researchers, and
story to a particular segment of the writers/reporters for print; produc-
population. ers, researchers, and reporters for
broadcast); and
YOU CAN BE THE FIRST SOURCE
If you receive word that a media • Those who develop community
outlet or individual reporter is work- affairs programs and manage public
ing on a story, you can increase your service advertising (public service
chances of having your information directors).
–29–
5 Media Tips Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition
Tips for
Participating in
Social Media
Regardless of the types of media out- SOCIAL MEDIA

❏ Practice lets and activities you decide to use, it In addition to traditional “main-
❏ Be Transparent is essential to develop a relationship stream” media, social media has
with media professionals through emerged as an effective tool for com-
❏ Make Time for Social Media
understanding and meeting their municating directly with the public
❏ Disclose needs. and members of the media. With a
well-established social media pres-
WHAT YOUR STORY SHOULD
ence, you can reach a large audience
CONTAIN
with your message in a matter of
Whether you are tapping into news,
minutes.
public service programming, or enter-
tainment media, reporters and pro- Social media is about connecting
ducers seek similar story elements: with people and creating and forging
1. Audience appeal and relevance to relationships. As with any community,
readers social media provides an avenue to
2. Issues that stimulate debate, con- tend to those relationships.
troversy, and even conflict—in Social media is available any time of
short; “drama” day or night, as long as you have an
3. Stories that are popular on a Internet connection, making it pos-
broad scale sible to communicate whenever it is
4. Fresh angles and twists on an convenient for you.
issue that have not been seen One challenge of social media is
before verifying the source or accuracy of
5. Timeliness with new or breaking information. As a result, misinforma-
stories tion can spread like wildfire. However,
having a social media presence allows
ENGAGE WITH THE MEDIA
you to participate in the conversation,
Journalists, reporters, and consum-
dispel myths and/or share additional
ers regularly look to social media
information that can help provide
channels for information. In addition,
important balance to the dialogue.
engaging in different social media
platforms is essential to sharing your
message with an audience that previ-
ously might not have been accessible.
–30–
Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition Media Tips 5
Your Social Media Strategy Tips for Participating in As a rule of thumb, disclose any
There are many types of social media, Social Media potential conflicts of interest up front.
which can be overwhelming for some- Practice: The more you participate Broadly speaking, be aware of the
one just starting out. Focusing your in social media, the more comfortable legal implications of any media work
efforts on one or two types of social you will become. Start by creating that you do.
media at first will increase your com- accounts and experimenting with
Handling Controversial Topics
fort and impact in those areas. them. When you feel ready, you can
There are many diverse opinions
“announce” your presence.
You will be able to make better deci- about food biotechnology among
sions on where and how you spend Be Transparent: No matter which various groups and individuals.
your time on social media if you platform you use, it is important to Therefore, as food biotechnology
develop a strategy. Ask yourself: What have a strong online profile. You only news breaks, there will likely be con-
is my goal in using social media? have a few words to make a first troversial discussions occurring in
Is it to: impression and entice people to “fol- social media. This presents an oppor-
low” or “friend” you, “like” your page, tunity to engage in dialogue with the
• Engage with the media or popular
or subscribe to your blog. public and provide science-based
online influencers to provide exper-
information to enable consumer
tise for stories? If possible, include a professional
understanding.
photo or logo and provide informa-
• Share new research and informa-
tion about your credentials, training, At some point, you will likely come
tion on biotechnology?
expertise, interests and/or role at across someone who disagrees with
• Monitor conversations and senti- your organization. Think about how you. The best way to handle negative
ment on particular topics and cor- you stand out from others so you can comments is to professionally and
rect misinformation? attract a following. courteously answer the question, pro-
viding links and references. If there is
• Host regular discussions on bio- Make Time for Social Media: It
still no resolution, agree to disagree.
technology developments? takes time to build an effective social
Some individuals just want to get a
media presence. To get into the habit
• Influence my target audience using reaction out of you or discredit you.
of using social media, block off time
social media? It is not a good use of your time to
on your calendar every day and make
try to reason with them. If you feel
Although it is easy to dabble in social it a part of your daily routine.
your “buttons getting pushed,” wait
media, it is important to answer these
There are tools to help you save time a couple of hours to respond and/or
questions in order to form a stra-
on social media. For example, Hoot- ask a friend or colleague to read your
tegic approach and integrate social
Suite (www.HootSuite.com) has a response and offer suggestions. This
media with overall communications
free online program for scheduling will prevent rash posts “in the heat of
planning.
tweets, blog posts, and messages. the moment.” Remember, as with tra-
Since technology evolves rapidly, it is ditional media, posts in social media
a good idea to search the Internet or cannot always be easily deleted.
App store to find the latest tools. The
Getting “Personal” on Social Media
various social media platforms can
While social media is about shar-
also be integrated so you can publish
ing and building relationships, some
just once and it will appear on all of
people are confused about how much
your pages.
sharing is appropriate. You should
Disclose: If you are posting on behalf only share what you are comfortable
of an organization, be sure to comply sharing. Including some “personality”
with its social media policy. Your orga- occasionally (but not too much) can
nization likely has statements about help establish a human connection.
disclosure in the social media policy.
–31–
“Status Update” to communicate with There are free sites that allow you to
their “friends” or “fans.” Individuals create your own blog/website (www.
“friend” each other and “like” organi- wordpress.com). Or, you can still opt
zation pages. to purchase your own web address
(or domain name) and have a website
Pinterest (www.Pinterest.com) is a
designed to include a blog.
pinboard-style photo sharing website
that allows users to create and man- Ideas for Using Social Media
age theme-based collections such as • Connect with media, colleagues,
events, places or things, interests, and influencers of interest to you.
recipes, and more. Pinterest’s mission
• Build relationships with connec-
is to “connect everyone in the world
tions by communicating often and
through the ‘things’ they find interest-
sharing useful information.
ing.” Users can browse others’ pin-
SOCIAL MEDIA APPLICATIONS boards for inspiration, “re-pin” images • You can use all of the social media
Twitter (www.Twitter.com) is to their own collections, and “like” platforms to share blog posts and
designed to be a rapid-fire exchange photos. You can create “boards” based links to research articles, photos, or
of thoughts and ideas. Therefore, it is on topics of interest, such as “food anything else on the web that helps
limited to 140-character posts. These biotechnology,” for example. You can identify you as a credible expert. The
short bursts of information are called share videos and links to anything on more you talk about food biotechnol-
“tweets.” Users can include links to the web, including blog posts, as long ogy and reference the compelling
images and other content and enter as there is an image included. body of research, the more comfort-
“hashtags” using the “#” sign as a way able people will be with the concept.
of categorizing messages and taking Blogs A blog is a series of regular
part in conversations (for example: entries or “posts” published on the • Talk about what you are doing,
#foodbiotech or #sustainable). The web in reverse chronological order by such as attending events and con-
media in particular use Twitter to an individual or group. Bloggers who ferences. Find what the “hashtag”
broadcast breaking news. If you like are successful in gaining a following for the event is and use it.
another user’s tweet, you can “re- have one or more themes that they
• To access content of interest to
tweet” that information. If others regularly post about, and their posts
you, follow people and hashtags on
re-tweet your information, their fol- are unique, personal, and interest-
Twitter, and subscribe to blogs.
lowers may decide to follow you. This ing to read. You may have your own
is how you build a base of followers. personal blog or you may be asked to • Host/participate in “chats” on Twit-
contribute to your organization’s blog. ter or Facebook to “meet” new
When you create a Twitter account, people and share your expertise.
one of the first things you will do is Blog posts can be any length, but
choose a Twitter username, widely keep in mind that people are busy • Write articles or commentaries on
referred to as a “handle.” All Twit- and shorter posts take less time to food biotechnology or modern agri-
ter handles begin with the “@” sign. read. You can write more succinctly culture. Include links and images,
If you want to talk to someone on or break up a topic into a “series” of as well as personal anecdotes, such
Twitter, use his or her handle in your shorter posts. In general, 500-700 as a recent experience on a farm,
tweet. For example: “@JoeSmith You words is an ideal length and gives you to establish a connection with the
might be interested in this blog post enough room to make your key points, reader.
on #food #biotechnology (link)” provide valuable tips to the reader,
• Read other blogs and comment on
and link to additional information.
Facebook (www.Facebook.com). On them—don’t forget to compliment
Facebook, individuals and organiza- A Note About Personal Web- and share balanced information. Do
tions can set up pages where they pages: Many people also use their more than just correct; encourage
can post information, questions, fun blog as their website, with additional those who are doing a good job, so
facts, videos, and photos in their pages for “About Me,” “Contact,” etc. they will keep doing it!
–32–
BUILD RELATIONSHIPS Periodically send them new infor-

WITH THE MEDIA mation or items of interest to
One of the most important facts to remind them that you are a good
keep in mind about building media resource for food biotechnology.
relationships is that no single set of
• Stay in touch: Compliment the
prescribed steps can guarantee press
media when they publish an accu-
coverage. Often coverage, or lack of
rate, thorough story about a prior-
it, is decided by what you have or
ity issue for you. If a reporter has
have not done to establish relation-
quoted you or your organization,
ships with media professionals long
send a note of appreciation for a
before you approach them with a
job well done.
breaking story.
• Be consistent: Develop key Build
Your relationships with the media
message points so that anyone in Relationships
should be partnerships. You want
your organization in contact with with the Media
to reach the public—and the media
the media can deliver consistent
provide access to the public. Like-
messages about the importance
wise, the media want to capture the
of food biotechnology. Designate
public’s attention—and you have
one person as your organization’s ❏ Identify one relevant news
important information that can help contact at each organization
spokesperson to provide a familiar
them do that.
presence with the media. ❏ Build relationships
The following are tips to help you ❏ Stay in touch
• Offer other contacts: Further
establish and maintain relations with
demonstrate your value as a media ❏ Be consistent
the media. Keep in mind, however,
resource by recommending other
that the procedures of your organiza- ❏ Offer other contacts
good contacts from organizations
tion must take precedence, so be sure ❏ Give the media a heads up
that add value to the food biotech-
to familiarize yourself thoroughly with
nology issue and complement your ❏ Help reporters do their job
the policies of your public or media
area of expertise. ❏ Be proactive
relations office and their preferred
methods of media outreach. • Give the media a heads up: ❏ Do your homework
Reporters appreciate having tips to
• Identify one relevant news con- ❏ Become indispensable
develop their stories, but they need
tact at each organization: Just
advance notice in order to do so.
as you are a local resource on food
When you know of an anticipated
biotechnology, you will need a con-
announcement or event, give the
sistent contact you can call with a
media a “heads up” so they have
story idea or response to a food/agri-
adequate time to cover your story.
cultural biotechnology story (e.g., a
When appropriate, use embargo
reporter who regularly covers food,
ground rules during conference
health, or consumer stories). The
calls and webcasts. On news
reporter covering a particular beat
releases, indicate “embargoed until
at a media outlet can change regu-
[date], [time]” at the top of the page
larly, so be prepared to continually
to let reporters know that the infor-
foster these relationships.
mation cannot be officially released
• Build relationships: Take advan- to the public until then. In any
tage of opportunities to nurture case, be selective and careful with
positive relations with the media. what you release early.
–33–
• Help reporters do their job:

Remember that, to a degree, report-
ers rely on food experts like you for
story ideas, timely information, and
access to interview subjects—usu-
ally under tight deadlines. One of
the best ways to establish produc-
tive relationships, therefore, is to
help reporters accomplish their
objectives. If you are prepared and
can make a reporter’s life easier, you
will be remembered as a helpful and
thorough source for food biotech-
nology stories.
• Be proactive: Provide background
information before the interview.
Most reporters appreciate receiv-
DO’S AND DON’TS WHEN DON’TS:
ing brief bullet points that they can
INTERACTING WITH THE MEDIA • Don’t go it alone: use the net-
quickly turn into interview questions.
work to spread the access to
DO’S:
• Do your homework: Before pitch- expertise and different angles but
• Be brief: News stories require
ing a story, research the reporter’s prepare well first. Network col-
concise messages that can easily be
previous stories on the topic to leagues don’t like surprises and
converted into “sound bites” and
avoid pitching something that is would appreciate a heads up on
short quotes.
too similar. You will also be able to stories you are working on with the
determine the journalist’s specific • Be relatable: Humility and media.
position on the issue. responsibility are attractive quali- • Don’t offer stale news: Stay
ties, as is the ability to relate to a away from flimsy story ideas and
• Become indispensable: When
media outlet’s readers or viewers. issues that are yesterday’s news.
reporters recognize you as a valu-
Admitting when you’ve made a mis-
able source for food biotechnology • Don’t say something you would
take will help build trust.
stories, they are more likely to not want to see on the Internet
pay attention to your suggestions. • Be responsive: Realize that all or YouTube: Assume nothing is
One way to become indispens- media operate within tight dead- “off the record”—even when chat-
able is to introduce yourself as an lines. Respond quickly to requests ting conversationally before or
expert—or someone with access for information or interviews. If after answering specific questions
to experts—on food biotechnology. possible, respond within the hour. on the topic.
For example, compile the most The media’s ability to reach you is
• Don’t take “no” as the only
compelling biotechnology statistics critical to establishing yourself as a
answer: If a journalist rejects a
and research and send them along reliable, valuable media source.
story idea, take the opportunity to
to reporters with an introductory
• Be honest: If you don’t know an ask him/her what type of informa-
note. Another way is to keep a list
answer, say so and offer to find out. tion he/she would be able to use in
of informed speakers and com-
If you can’t find out, say so. a story.
monly requested facts on hand that
can be provided quickly. • Be prepared: Be prepared to • Don’t promise unless you really
provide information and to answer can deliver on an interview or on
• Be prepared to repeat it all over
questions once you have a report- an exclusive news story.
again as new reporters come onto
er’s interest.
the job.
–34–
DIFFERENCES IN NEWS MEDIA Deadline: ASAP for breaking news;

When targeting media for a story, usually by 10 a.m. to make the 6 p.m.
keep in mind that each outlet has news. Public service announcements
its own format and audience, and a usually require two to four weeks to
story might not be appealing to every get onto a radio/TV rotation cycle.
target audience. The following offers Talk shows have a lead time ranging
a break-down on formats, roles and from one or two weeks to as long as
standard deadlines by type of media. two months.
Broadcast Media Radio
• Television Radio’s format requires a constant
• Radio but varied stream of news and infor-
mation. This presents many oppor-
Print and Online Newspapers/
tunities to have your message aired,
Magazines
including:
• Newspapers (national, regional,
local) which do not. You can also go • News
• Magazines and Newsletters (lei- directly to the appropriate reporter,
who will decide whether to present • Listener call-in programs
sure, educational, professional)
the story to the assignment editor • Morning and afternoon “drive-time”
if he or she is interested.
Broadcast Media radio shows
• Regular local news anchors, who • Public service announcements (10-,
Television
are increasingly developing and 30-, or 60-second announcements)
Television is a highly visual medium
driving news stories.
that requires producing images that When looking to get a story on radio,
will make the story more interesting When working with television journal- it helps to know the:
or easier to understand. Depending ists, keep the following tips in mind:
on the type of story, you have the fol- • News director, who is the senior
• Video news releases, B-roll, and gatekeeper and also is often the
lowing options for coverage:
other graphics are often used by senior news editor.
• Local and national news segments TV producers to help viewers bet-
ter understand information pro- • Program director, who will direct
• Network and cable talk shows and you to a talk show contact or host if
vided in the segment. If you have
discussion programs your story seems appropriate.
these, always offer them to the
• Paid segments with interviews producers. • Assignment editor, who generates
• Public service announcements • Television news is brief, often reduc- story ideas, often with talk show
(10-, 30-, or 60-second spots) ing issues to 30-second segments producers or the news director;
using short “sound bites.” If you finds angles and features to add
When looking to get a story on televi- variety to news casts.
arrange for an on-camera interview,
sion, it helps to know the:
remember that brief is best. (Inter- • Reporter, who covers stories on
• Program producer/researcher, who views taped beforehand are often location.
controls the story lineup for each reduced to one or two short sound
newscast (e.g., he/she may see food bites embedded within the segment. As you think of ways to approach
biotechnology news as a “peg” on Live on-air interviews are usually radio stations with ideas, keep the fol-
which to hang a series of segments kept to three minutes or less.) lowing tips in mind:
on nutrition and health). • Drive times (6 to 9 a.m. and
• Television is a visual medium.
• News assignment editor, who is Whenever possible, supply a 3 to 6 p.m.) are good for
the day-to-day decision maker visual to add interest and appeal targeting coverage.
on which stories get covered and to your interview.
–35–
• For taped radio interviews, as with Print and Online Keep the following tips in mind:
television, you must be able to
speak in short (10- to 15-second)
Newspapers/Magazines • Offer simple graphics and suggest
photo opportunities that will help
“sound bites.” And, because radio Newspapers and magazines, both
explain or add depth to your story.
provides only one dimension of the print and online, may provide more
interviewee—his or her voice— in-depth coverage of a subject, • Find out exactly what graphics
tone, firmness, and lack of hesi- although interviews may still be heav- your contact needs and offer easy
tancy in responding to questions all ily edited. Increasingly, community access.
contribute to the credibility of the news is seen as a necessity to main-
Deadline: Deadlines for newspapers
message. tain balance in news coverage, which
and magazines vary; however, the
improves your chances of getting your
• Make sure the interview—whether life cycle of newspapers moves very
information in print. Newspapers and
by telephone or in person—is con- quickly. The deadline for a newspaper
magazines need your news. Opportu-
ducted without audible distractions might be a couple hours to a couple of
nities for food biotechnology coverage
(such as papers being shuffled, weeks. Magazines have a longer lead
include:
office mates talking, or cell phone time; usually around six months.
static or background noise) to • Food/nutrition news and features
DISSEMINATING INFORMATION
ensure good sound quality.
• Science news and features Your information, regardless of how
Deadline: Depends on the story, timely or interesting, will go nowhere
• Agricultural news
but “day of” is usually acceptable for if it is never read or seen by anyone.
breaking news; give notice of public • Metro/city news Unfortunately, the preferred means of
events several days in advance. Talk contact (e.g., email, phone, etc.) var-
• Consumer news
shows, like television, have a lead ies from outlet to outlet and reporter
time ranging from one to two weeks, • Letters to the editor to reporter. However, identifying
occasionally longer. individual preferences is a very simple
• Op-ed pieces
and appreciated process.
When looking to get a story into a
A logical way to tackle this question
newspaper or magazine, it helps to
when contacting a large number of
know the:
media outlets is to pick one means of
• City/metro desk editor, who han- distribution, distribute the informa-
dles local stories in the community tion, and then in your follow-up call,
and is probably your first contact ask the reporter if he or she received
for events. the information and if he or she pre-
fers being contacted another way.
• Reporters who receive assignments
Note the preference, and you will be
from the editors and cover a spe-
prepared and organized for the next
cific “beat” (such as community
time.
events, nutrition and health, food,
science, and medical issues), will As with every other aspect of media
write your story, and may ask for relations, building relationships is
interviews. key. As you work with media in your
area and make note of each contact,
• Photo desk editor, who may want
you will establish personal relation-
to attend events that offer compel-
ships that will make you better able to
ling visuals and are good photo
anticipate their needs.
opportunities.
–36–
The public has taken an avid interest

in their food, and due to its personal
and emotional nature, food stories
make for compelling news.
However, the reality is that emerging
science can be confusing. According
to the IFIC Foundation 2012 Food
& Health Survey, three out of four
consumers (76%) feel that changes
in nutritional guidance make it hard
to know what to believe. The way
emerging science is communicated
and by whom can have a powerful
effect on the public’s understanding,
behavior, and well-being.
To examine these issues and assist in
the communications process, in 1998
the Harvard School of Public Health
Improving Public Understanding: and the IFIC Foundation convened an
Guidelines for Communicating Emerging advisory group of leading experts for
a series of eight roundtables around
Science on Nutrition, Food Safety, the country, involving more than 60
other nutrition researchers, food
and Health scientists, journal editors, university
press officers, broadcast and print
For Journalists, Scientists and All Other Communicators
reporters, consumer groups, and food
industry executives.
Based on an advisory group con-
Based on the group’s input, a set of
vened by Harvard School of Public
“These Guidelines can only guiding principles for communicating
Health and IFIC Foundation.
make a difference if they don’t emerging science was developed. At
First published by Oxford sit on a shelf. Putting these the heart of these principles is the
University Press in Journal recommendations into practice belief that food-related science can
of the National Cancer Institute just might make a difference in the
be effectively communicated in a way
public’s understanding of diet and
(February 4, 1998, Volume 90, that facilitates public understanding.
health. I urge you to read them,
Number 3). Please use the original
share them, remember them and The guidelines are designed to
citation when reprinting part, or use them. After all, I think what the help ensure that sound science and
all, of this document. public wants is for us to be honest improved public understanding ulti-
See also: “Getting the Story Straight with each study as it comes along mately guide what and how we com-
and try to put it into perspective,
on Nutrition,” The Journal of municate and to help communicators
but keep reminding people that
the American Medical Association add context to new studies by asking
it’s the totality of evidence as
(JAMA), February 11, 1998. questions that will help them put
it unfolds that warrants their
attention.” studies into context and identify the
Twenty-five years ago, a food and
Timothy Johnson, MD, MPH,
most important takeaways that will
health study would never have made
Medical Editor, ABC Good Morning best inform the public.
the evening news. Now, hardly a day America
goes by that a breaking story on the
foods we eat doesn’t make headlines.
–37–
2. Have you put the study findings standard, it does not guarantee the
into context? findings are definitive or conclusive?
If the findings are preliminary and If a study has not been peer reviewed
inconclusive, have you made that (e.g., a paper presented at a meeting
clear? or convention), are the findings so
important that they should be
If the findings differ with previous
communicated to the public before
studies, have you indicated this and
peer review?
explained why? If the results refute
previously released results, do you Have you distinguished between
provide a weight of evidence compa- actual study findings and editorials
rable with the earlier findings? or commentaries that may have been
written about the study? Have you
Have you clarified to whom the find-
clarified that an editorial is an expres-
ings apply? Have you avoided general-
sion of personal views and has not
izing the effects when the study was
always been peer reviewed? Have you
restricted to populations of a certain
investigated how widely held these
age or sex or with specific genetic,
General Guidelines for views are or whether the editorial
environmental, or other predisposing
All Parties in the represents a narrowly held opinion?
conditions?
Communication Process
4. Have you disclosed the impor-
1. Will your communication Have you included information about
tant facts about the study?
enhance public understanding of risk/benefit trade-offs of consum-
diet and health? ing or not consuming certain foods, Have you provided adequate informa-
ingredients, or supplements? Have tion on the study’s original purpose,
Is the study credible enough to war- you explained how these risks and research design, and methods of data
rant public attention? benefits compare with other factors collection and analysis?
With the information you provided, (e.g., level of physical activity, genetic
Have you acknowledged any
will the public be able to properly history) that may also contribute
limitations or shortcomings the
assess the importance of the findings to health?
study may have?
and whether they should have any In explaining a dietary risk, have you
immediate bearing on their 5. Have you disclosed all key
distinguished between population
food choices? information about the study’s
wide estimates and individual risk?
funding?
Have you avoided an overly simplistic Have you cited statistics on absolute
approach that may inappropriately risk and not just relative risk, e.g., Have you publicly disclosed all fund-
characterize individual foods ingre- expressing an increase in incidence ing sources for the study?
dients or supplements as good or from “one in a million to three in a
Are you reasonably confident of the
bad? Have you helped the public million” and not just as “three times
study’s objectivity and independence?
understand how the food, ingredient, the risk”?
or supplement can be consumed as Have you considered what the
3. Has the study or findings been
part of a total healthful diet, or why it funders stand to gain or lose from the
peer reviewed?
should not be consumed? study’s outcome?
Has the study been peer reviewed by
Have you appropriately represented Have you allowed the validity of the
independent scientists or published
the study’s overall conclusions and science to speak for itself, regardless
in a peer-reviewed journal? At the
avoided highlighting selective findings of the funding?
same time, have you understood that
that, on their own, might present a although peer review is an important
misleading picture?
–38–
Communication Guidelines 3. Have you met the needs of the Does the study warrant an accompa-
for Scientists media? nying editorial to help put the findings
1. Have you provided essential into context? If so, is the editorial
Are you available for media interviews
background information about content included in the news release?
the day before or after the release?
the study in your written find- Do you make every attempt to 4. Does your submission policy
ings, or to journalists or others respond to media inquiries promptly? permit scientists to clarify results
requesting it, in a language that of abstract presentations with
can be understood? Does the news release prepared for
the media?
the study communicate the primary
Have you explained all details of the findings faithfully and without exag- Does your submission policy make
study, including purpose, hypothesis, geration? Have you reviewed and it clear that scientists presenting
type and number of subjects, research approved the final version of your abstracts should submit the complete
design, methods of data collection, institution’s news release? report for peer review? Have you
and analysis and the primary findings? stressed they should not distribute
Communication Guidelines copies of the complete report of the
Are you reporting study findings con-
for Journal Editors study, or figures or tables from that
sistent with the original purpose of
the data collection? 1. Does your embargo policy study, to the media before publication
enhance public communication? in a peer-reviewed journal?
Were appropriate scientific methods
of inquiry used? Did you disclose any Do you make embargoed copies of the Communication Guidelines
study shortcomings or limitations, journal available to all journalists who for Journalists
including methods of data collection? agree to respect the embargo, not just
1. Is your story accurate and
Were objective health measurements a select group of reporters?
balanced?
used to help verify self-reports? Do you notify scientists whose stud-
Have you established the credibility of
Was the study conducted in animals ies will likely receive press attention
your primary source?
or humans? Are limitations of ani- when the embargoed issue is being
mal models in their applicability to made available? Have you asked other reputable sci-
humans noted? entists and other third-party health
Do you provide the relevant articles
sources if they believe the study is
Have you waited to report the results from the embargoed journal to study
reliable and significant? Have these
until the study has been indepen- authors so they can preview other
scientists reviewed the study?
dently peer reviewed? If not, did you related work in that issue, helping
disclose to the media that the findings them respond to questions? Do the third-party sources you are
are preliminary and have not yet been quoting represent mainstream scien-
2. Do you encourage respon-
peer reviewed? tific thinking on the issue involved? If
sible media reporting on study
not, have you make it clear that such
2. Have you clarified dietary risks findings?
opinions or commentary differ from
and benefits? If you issue a news release on an arti- most scientific perspectives on this
Did you explain the dosage of a sub- cle in your journal, is it faithful to the topic? If only one or two individuals
stance or the amount of food or ingre- underlying research? Does it provide express such opposing viewpoint,
dient that was linked to the health adequate background information? does the amount of coverage given
outcome? Is this amount reasonably reflect that these are clearly minority
3. Have you considered the
consumed by the average individual? opinions?
effect of the study findings on
What was the original risk of develop- consumers? Have you received and reviewed a
ing the disease? Have you expressed copy of the study publication—not
Have you considered what might be
the new level of risk as both absolute simply reviewed abstracts, news
the effect of the study findings on the
and relative risk? releases, wire reports, or other sec-
general public?
ondary sources of information?
–39–
After reviewing the study results and 3. Does your story provide practi- Do you stay current on diet and
limitations, have you concluded it still cal consumer advice? health recommendations so that you
warrants coverage? Have you objec- can help identify the true significance
Have you translated the findings
tively considered the possibility of not of new findings?
into everyday consumer advice? For
covering the study?
example, if a study reports on the Guidelines for Industry,
Are words that are used to describe effects of a nutrient, have you consid- Consumer, and Other
the findings appropriate for the type ered identifying the foods in which it Interest Groups
of investigation? Cause and effect is most commonly found?
1. Have you provided accurate
can be shown directly only in studies
How do action steps relate to the information and feedback to the
in which the intervention is the only
larger context of existing dietary media?
variable modified between the experi-
guidance (e.g., Dietary Guidelines for
mental and control group. Is your news release on the study in
Americans, USDA Food Guide Pyra-
keeping with the findings, i.e., neither
Is the tone of the news report appro- mid, importance of balance, variety
exaggerates or oversimplifies nor
priate? Do you avoid using words that and moderation)?
disregards or sensationalizes the find-
overstate the findings, e.g., “may”
Have you provided credible national, ings? Does it provide new insight or
does not mean “will” and “some”
state, or local resources from which help enhance public understanding of
people does not mean “all” or “most”
consumers can obtain more informa- the study results?
people?
tion or assistance on the diet and
Do you tactfully correct misinforma-
Are the headlines, photo images, and health topic—especially if the findings
tion in the media? Do you provide
graphics consistent with the findings present an immediate threat to public
scientific explanations of why the
and content of your article? health and safety (e.g., foodborne or
story is incorrect, not simply express
waterborne illness outbreak), such as
2. Have you applied a healthy opinions or judgements of a few indi-
brochures, toll-free hotlines, or online
skepticism to your reporting? viduals? Do you follow up with jour-
resources?
nalists to acknowledge an accurate,
In talking to sources and reading
4. Is your reporting grounded in insightful story?
news releases, have you separated
basic understanding of scientific
fact versus emotion or commentary? 2. Do you adhere to ethical stan-
principles?
dards in providing diet and health
Do the study findings seem plausible?
Are you aware of the difference information?
Have you used any hyped or “loaded” between evidence and opinion? If not,
Do you respect the embargo placed
terms in the headline or body of a have you consulted knowledgeable
on a study, rather than attempt to
report to attract public attention, e.g., sources?
scoop or “be first with” the news?
“scientific breakthrough” or “medical
Are you familiar with the scien-
miracle”? Does the report indirectly Have you avoided promoting or writ-
tific method of inquiry and various
suggest that a pill, treatment, or other ing news releases on studies that have
terms such as hypothesis testing,
approach is a “silver bullet”? not been peer reviewed? Have you
control groups, randomization, and
acknowledged that results that have
Have you applied the same critical double-blind study? Do you under-
not been scientifically reviewed are
standards to all sources of informa- stand and communicate that the
preliminary findings and do not call
tion—from scientists, to public rela- nature of science is evolutionary, not
for a change in behavior?
tions and press offices, to journals, revolutionary?
to industry, to consumer and special Have you identified your organiza-
Are you familiar with different types
interest groups? What does the infor- tion’s viewpoint and sources of
of studies, why they are used and the
mation source have to gain if its point funding?
limitations of each?
of view is presented? Have you con-
sidered a range of conflict-of-interest
possibilities beyond dollars?
–40–
GOVERNMENT AND FOOD & AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION
6
(FAO) OF THE UNITED NATIONS (UN)
INTERNATIONAL +39 06 57051
RESOURCES http://www.fao.org
Twitter: @FAOnews
AGRICULTURE NETWORK
INFORMATION CENTER (AGNIC)
A guide to quality agricultural information
Frequent research reports on
biotechnology:
ADDITIONAL
as selected by the National Agricultural http://www.fao.org/biotech/en/ RESOURCES
Library, land-grant universities, and other
institutions U.S. FOOD AND DRUG
(301) 504-6780 ADMINISTRATION (FDA)
http://www.agnic.org Phone: (888) 463-6332 • Directory of Professional
Twitter: @agnicalliance (301) 796-4540 (Office of Public Affairs/ Science, Health, and Government
Press Office) Organizations with Food
CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND http://www.fda.gov Biotechnology Resources*
PREVENTION (CDC) Twitter: @US_FDA
(800) 232-4636 or (404) 639-3311 • Food Biotechnology Academic &
TTY: (888) 232-6348 Center for Food Safety and Applied Scientific Experts available online only:
http://www.cdc.gov Nutrition (CFSAN) www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx
Twitter: @CDC_ehealth (888) SAFE-FOOD / (888) 723-3366
http://www.fda.gov/Food/default.htm
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Twitter: @FDArecalls
AGENCY (EPA)
Background, questions and answers,
(202) 260-2090 or (202) 272-0167
past reports and more at: http://www.
TTY: (202) 272-0165
fda.gov/Food/FoodScienceResearch/
http://www.epa.gov
Biotechnology/default.htm
Twitter: @EPAgov
Biotechnology information:
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/biotech/index.
htm
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)

(877) 382-4357 or (202) 326-2222
(Consumer Response Center)
http://www.ftc.gov
Twitter: @FTC
Biotechnology information:
http://www.ftc.gov/opp/
intellect/020417lawrencemsung2.pdf
–41–
6 ADDITIONAL Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition
RESOURCES www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx
U.S. DEPartment OF AGRICULTURE RESEARCH & DONALD DANFORTH PLANT SCIENCE

(USDA) CENTER
(202) 720-2791 (Information Hotline)
PROFESSIONAL (314) 587-1000
(202) 720-4623 (Office of ORGANIZATION RESOURCES http://www.danforthcenter.org
Communications) Twitter: @DanforthCenter
http://www.usda.gov THE ACADEMY OF NUTRITION &
DIETETICS
Twitter: @USDA INFORMATION SYSTEMS FOR
(800) 877-1600 or (312) 899-0040 BIOTECHNOLOGY (ISB)
Information on regulatory activities, news http://www.eatright.org http://gophisb.biochem.vt.edu
& background on biotechnology: Twitter: @EatRight
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/ INSTITUTE OF FOOD TECHNOLOGISTS
usdahome?navid=BIOTECH AG-WEST BIOTECH, INC. (CANADA) (IFT)
(306) 975-1939 (800) 438-3663 or (312) 782-8424
Animal and Plant Health Inspection http://www.agwest.sk.ca http://www.ift.org
Services (APHIS) Twitter: @agwestbio Twitter: @IFT
(202) 720-3668
(301) 851-3877 (Biotechnology AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ALLERGY, Biotechnology information: http://www.
Regulatory Services) ASTHMA, AND IMMUNOLOGY (AAAAI) ift.org/public-policy-and-regulations/key-
http://www.aphis.usda.gov (800) 822-2762 or (414) 272-6071 science-issues/emerging-technologies.
Twitter: @USDA_APHIS http://www.aaaai.org aspx
Biotechnology information: http://www. INTERNATIONAL FOOD INFORMATION

AMERICAN ACADEMY OF FAMILY
aphis.usda.gov/biotechnology/ COUNCIL (IFIC) FOUNDATION
PHYSICIANS (AAFP)
(800) 274-2237 or (913) 906-6000 (202) 296-6540
Food and Nutrition Information Center http://www.foodinsight.org
http://www.aafp.org
(FNIC) Twitter: @FoodInsight
Twitter: @aafp
(301) 504-5719
http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic Biotechnology information: http://www.
AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
Twitter: @Nutrition_gov foodinsight.org/Resources/Detail.
(AMA)
aspx?topic=Food_Biotechnology_
Biotechnology information: http://fnic. (800) 621-8335 or (312) 464-5000
Resources
nal.usda.gov/consumers/all-about- http://www.ama-assn.org
food/food-biotechnology Twitter: @AmerMedicalAssn
INTERNATIONAL FOOD POLICY
Official statement on crops produced RESEARCH INSTITUTE (IFPRI)
Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) (202) 862-5600
through biotechnology: http://www.
(202) 720-5604 or (800) 535-4555 http://www.ifpri.org/
ama-assn.org/resources/doc/csaph/a12-
Meat and Poultry Hotline: Twitter: @ifpri
csaph2-bioengineeredfoods.pdf
(888) MPHotline (674-6854)
http://www.fsis.usda.gov INTERNATIONAL LIFE SCIENCES
CENTER FOR FOOD INTEGRITY (CFI)
Twitter: @FSIS INSTITUTE (ILSI)
(816) 880-5360
http://www.foodintegrity.org/ (202) 659-0074
National Agricultural Library (NAL) http://www.ilsi.org
Twitter: @foodintegrity
(301) 504-5755 Twitter: @ILSI_Global
http://www.nal.usda.gov For more information: http://www.
Twitter: @National_Ag_Lib bestfoodfacts.org International Food Biotechnology
Committee (IFBiC)
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO) COUNCIL FOR AGRICULTURAL http://www.ilsi.org/FoodBioTech/
+41 22 791 21 11 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (CAST) Pages/HomePage.aspx
http://www.who.int (515) 292-2125
Twitter: @WHO http://www.cast-science.org
Twitter: @CASTagScience
Biotechnology information: http://www.
who.int/foodsafety/biotech/en/ Biotechnology information: http://www.
cast-science.org/news/?ethical_
perspectives&show=news&news
ID =9906
–42–
Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition ADDITIONAL 6
www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx RESOURCES
NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES INDUSTRY AND COMMODITY

(NAS)
National Research Council
GROUP RESOURCES
Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of
ALLIANCE TO FEED THE FUTURE
Medicine (IOM)
www.alliancetofeedthefuture.org
(202) 334-2000
Twitter: @AllianceToFeed
http://www.nas.edu
Twitter: @NASciences
AMERICAN FARM BUREAU
Biotechnology information: http://dels. FEDERATION
nas.edu/Report/Impact-Genetically- (202) 406-3600
Engineered-Crops/12804 http://www.fb.org
Twitter: @FarmBureau
http://dels.nas.edu/Workshop-
Summary/National-Summit-Strategies- Biotechnology information: http://www.
Manage/13518/?bname=banr fb.org/issues/docs/biotech13.pdf
http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_ AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

id=10418 (202) 331-7300
http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_ http://www.farmland.org *Go to www.foodinsight.org/
id=12216 Twitter: @Farmland foodbioguide.aspx for direct links
For more information: http://www. to biotechnology information on
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STATE farmland.org/documents/The_Green_ these and other websites, as well
DEPARTMENTS OF AGRICULTURE as a list of experts.
Leap_American_Farmland_Fall_09.pdf
(NASDA)
(202) 296-9680
Center for Agriculture in the
http://www.nasda.org
Environment
Twitter: @NASDAnews
(815) 753-9347
http://www.aftresearch.org
NORTH CAROLINA BIOTECHNOLOGY
CENTER
AMERICAN SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION
(919) 541-9366
(800) 688-7692 or (314) 576-1770
http://www.ncbiotech.org
www.soygrowers.com
Twitter: @ncbiotech
Twitter: @ASA_News2
For more information: http://www.
soygrowers.com/issues/biotechnology.
htm
–43–
6 ADDITIONAL Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition
RESOURCES www.foodinsight.org/foodbioguide.aspx
BIOTECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY GROCERY MANUFACTURERS ACADEMIC INSTITUTION

ORGANIZATION (BIO) ASSOCIATION (GMA)
(202) 962-9200 (202) 639-5900
RESOURCES
http://www.bio.org/category/food- http://www.gmaonline.org
AGBIOSAFETY, UNIVERSITY OF
agriculture Twitter: @GroceryMakers
NEBRASKA - LINCOLN
Twitter: @IAmBiotech
Biotechnology information: http://www. http://agbiosafety.unl.edu
Information on benefits of biotechnology: gmaonline.org/issues-policy/product-
http://www.bio.org/articles/global- safety/food-and-product-safety/plant- BOYCE THOMPSON INSTITUTE FOR
economic-and-environmental-benefits-ge- and-animal-biotechnology/ PLANT RESEARCH (BTI)
crops-continues-rise Affiliated With Cornell University
NATIONAL CORN GROWERS and National Agricultural
COUNCIL FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION (NCGA) Biotechnology Council
INFORMATION (CBI) (636) 733-9004 (607) 254-1234
(202) 962-9200 http://www.ncga.com/ http://bti.cornell.edu
http://www.whybiotech.com Twitter: @NationalCorn
Twitter: @agbiotech UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS
Biotechnology information: http://www. BIOTECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Information on how biotechnology ncga.com/topics/biotechnology (530) 752-3260
increases food security: http://www. biotechprogram@ucdavis.edu
whybiotech.com/resources/factsheets_ NATIONAL FISHERIES INSTITUTE http://www.biotech.ucdavis.edu/
food.asp http://www.aboutseafood.com/
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS:
CROPLIFE AMERICA NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE CENTER FOR CONSUMER RESEARCH
(202) 296-1585 (301) 713-2239 (CCR)
http://www.croplifeamerica.org http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/ (530) 752-2774
Twitter: @CropLifeAmerica Twitter: @NOAAFisheries ccr@ucdavis.edu
http://ccr.ucdavis.edu/
CROPLIFE INTERNATIONAL NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION
+32 2 542 04 10 (202) 331-5900 UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA COLLEGE
http://www.croplife.org/ http://www.restaurant.org OF FOOD, AGRICULTURAL, AND
Twitter: @CropLifeIntl Twitter: @WeRRestaurants NATURAL RESOURCE SCIENCES
(CFANS)
Information on biotechnology stewardship: (612) 624-1234
U.S. FARMERS AND RANCHERS
http://www.croplife.org/plant_ (USFRA) (Student/Academic Inquiries)
biotechnology_stewardship (636) 449-5086 http://www.cfans.umn.edu/
http://www.fooddialogues.com/ Twitter: @CFANS
FOOD MARKETING INSTITUTE (FMI) Twitter: @USFRA
(202) 452-8444 UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN
http://www.fmi.org Biotechnology information: http://www. BIOTECHNOLOGY CENTER—Online
Twitter: @FMI_ORG fooddialogues.com/foodsource/topics/ Courses on Food Biotechnology
biotech-seeds http://www.biotech.wisc.edu
Biotechnology information: http://
www.fmi.org/docs/policy-statements/ U.S. GRAINS COUNCIL
genetically-modified-food-and- (202) 789-0789
biotechnology.pdf?sfvrsn=4 http://www.grains.org
Twitter:@USGC
–44–
Glossary of Food & Agricultural
Biotechnology Terms
Terms are defined here only as they relate to food and agriculture and may have
7
applications in other industries (e.g., pharmaceuticals) that are not addressed. GLOSSARY
For additional definitions and details, please refer to the USDA Glossary of
Agricultural Biotechnology Terms located on their website (www.usda.gov).
A B
acrylamide bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)
A compound that forms in some foods A common soil microorganism in
during the cooking process (e.g., frying, bioinsecticides used by farmers, including
roasting, or baking), due to heat interacting organic farmers and home gardeners, to
with sugars and an amino acid naturally control insects with minimal environmental
present in some foods. impact. See also: bioinsecticide. See also:
USDA’s Glossary
agriculture
The science, art, and business of producing bioinsecticide
crops and raising livestock. Any material used in insect control that
is derived from living organisms, such
allergic reaction as bacteria, plant cells, or animal cells.
A reaction by the body’s immune system Examples include bacillus thuringiensis
after exposure to an allergen, often a (Bt) protein (from bacteria), and Pyrethrum
protein. Food can contain proteins that (made from dried flower heads of certain
induce an immune response. Allergic chrysanthemum varieties), both used
symptoms may include rash, hives, and in to control insects. See also: bacillus
extreme cases, shortness or loss of breath thuringiensis (Bt)
or unconsciousness. See also: USDA’s
Glossary biotechnology
The application of biological science to
Animal and Plant Health Inspection enhance attributes of plants, animals, and
Service (APHIS) other organisms, or to improve methods
A government agency within the United for producing foods. Includes techniques
States Department of Agriculture (USDA) such as fermentation, enzyme purification,
that protects and promotes the health of and plant and animal breeding (particularly
plants and animals used in agriculture and recombinant DNA technology). See also:
governs the field-testing of agricultural DNA, genetic engineering, recombinant
biotechnology crops. DNA (rDNA) technology. See also: USDA’s
Glossary
animal antibiotics
Drugs that treat infectious diseases in breeding (traditional or selective)
animals by inhibiting the growth of or Making deliberate crosses or matings of
eliminating the microorganisms causing the plants or animals so the offspring will have
disease. Antibiotics are used in animals for particular desired characteristics derived
the same reason as for people: to treat and from one or both of the parents. Practices
prevent the spread of diseases. used in traditional plant breeding may
include aspects of biotechnology such as
tissue culture, mutational breeding, and
marker-assisted breeding.
–45–
7 Glossary Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition
C deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

Carries the genetic information for most G
carbon footprint living systems. The DNA molecule consists gene
Amount of greenhouse gases, specifically of four base proteins (adenine, cytosine, The fundamental unit of heredity. A gene
carbon dioxide or other carbon compounds, guanine and thymine) and a sugar- contains the “blueprints” for building proteins
emitted by individuals, companies, or phosphate backbone, arranged in two in a specific pattern that determines the
countries (i.e., a person’s activities or a connected strands to form its characteristic characteristics of a plant, animal, or other
product’s manufacture and transport) double-helix. The genome (all of the genetic organism, and how those traits will be
during a given period of time. Indicator of information in a living organism), rather passed from one generation to the next.
air quality often used to measure an entity’s than single DNA molecules, determines It is typically a specific segment of a
environmental impact. See also: climate the organism’s characteristics. See also: chromosome. See also: chromosome, DNA.
change chromosome, gene, helix. See also: See also: USDA’s Glossary
USDA’s Glossary
chromosome genome
Composed of proteins and a long molecule All the genetic material in all the
of DNA, chromosomes determine the E chromosomes of a particular organism.
inheritance of traits. See also: DNA, gene. Environmental Protection Agency
See also: USDA’s Glossary (EPA) genomics
U.S. governmental agency whose mission The study of genomes, including sequencing
climate change is to protect human health and safeguard an organism’s genome, and examining the
While the term generally refers to a the natural environment—air, water, and specific function of each gene and how
significant change from one climatic land—upon which life depends. EPA is one genes work together.
condition to another, ‘climate change’ has of three agencies that review new products
been used interchangeably with the term of agricultural biotechnology that express genotype
‘global warming’ to refer to broad, long-term plant-incorporated pesticides (Bt), as well as The genetic identity of an individual.
changes in the earth’s climate and weather the use of pesticides with a new crop variety Genotype often is evident by outward
patterns. See also: carbon footprint developed through biotechnology. See also: characteristics, but may also be reflected in
USDA, FDA more subtle biochemical ways not visually
cloning evident.
Process used to create a genetic replica of
a fragment of DNA or an entire organism,
without sexual reproduction. See also:
F genetic engineering
The selective, deliberate alteration of an
USDA’s Glossary field test or trial organism’s genes using modern molecular
A test of a new crop variety, including biology, particularly recombinant DNA
commodity biotechnology-derived, conducted outside techniques. Other terms used include gene
A product of agriculture. Examples of the laboratory with specific requirements on splicing, gene manipulation, recombinant
agricultural commodities include wheat, rice, location, plot size, methodology, etc. DNA (rDNA) technology, or transgenic
beets, corn, beef, soybeans, and coffee. technology. See also: recombinant DNA
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (rDNA) technology. See also: USDA’s
U.S. regulatory agency responsible for Glossary
D ensuring the safety and wholesomeness
of all foods sold in interstate commerce genetic modification
deregulation except meat, poultry, and eggs (which are The production of heritable improvements
The process or act of removing government under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department in plants or animals for specific uses, via
restrictions or regulations on planting, of Agriculture). One of three agencies either genetic engineering or other more
import, and/or export. Plant commodities that review new products of agricultural traditional methods. Some countries other
are deregulated upon the government biotechnology that are intended for the food than the United States use this term to
receiving and evaluating scientific research supply. See also: USDA, EPA refer specifically to genetic engineering.
demonstrating food, feed, and human safety
See also: genetic engineering. See also:
and minimal impact on the environment. food security USDA’s Glossary
See also: commodity Availability of and access to sufficient,
nutritious food on a consistent basis, as well
as the knowledge and ability to select and
prepare foods to ensure safety and adequate
nutrition. Antonym: food insecurity.
–46–
Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition Glossary 7
glyphosate insect-protected crops nematodes

An herbicide used to kill weeds, such as Plants with the ability to withstand, deter, Microscopic, slender worms, some of which,
those that compete with commercial crops. or repel insects, thereby preventing them feed on plant roots.
It is also known under the trade name from feeding on the plant. The traits
Roundup®. Farmers favor glyphosate for (genes) determining resistance may be
its ability to control many types of weeds selected by plant breeders through cross- O
and its low toxicity compared with other pollination with other varieties of this crop
organic agriculture
herbicides. See also: herbicide, weed or through the introduction of genes such
Agricultural production without the use
as bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) through
of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. The
grains genetic engineering. See also: bacillus
USDA Organic Standards provides a list
The seeds of cereal grasses, such as wheat, thuringiensis (Bt). See also: USDA’s
of pesticides (fungicides, insecticides, and
corn, oats, barley, rye, and rice. Grain foods Glossary
herbicides) and other additives approved for
include bread, cereals, rice, and pasta.
production of organic crops, and currently
insecticide resistance
does not allow the use of genetically
The development or selection of heritable
H traits (genes) in an insect population that
engineered seeds. See also: commodity,
pesticide. See also: USDA’s Glossary
allows them to survive exposure to an
helix
insecticide that would otherwise debilitate
A spiral, staircase-like structure with
a repeating pattern described by two
or kill them. The presence of such resistant
insects makes the insecticide less useful
P
simultaneous operations (rotation and
for managing pest populations. See also: pesticide
translation). See also: DNA
USDA’s Glossary A broad class of crop protection products,
including four major types: insecticides used
herbicide
integrated pest management (IPM) to control insects; herbicides used to control
Class of crop protection and specialty
The coordinated, safe, and economical weeds; rodenticides used to control rodents;
chemicals used to control weeds on farms
use of pest and environmental information and fungicides used to control mold, mildew,
and in forests, as well as in non-agricultural
along with available pest control methods and fungi. Both farmers and consumers use
applications such as golf courses, public
(including cultural, biological, genetic, and pesticides in the home or yard to control
properties, and home lawns. See also:
chemical methods) to prevent unacceptable termites and roaches, clean mold from
pesticide, weed
levels of pest damage. shower curtains, stave off crab grass on the
lawn, kill fleas and ticks on pets, disinfect
herbicide-tolerant crops
swimming pools, etc. See also: herbicide,
Crops that have been developed to survive
(tolerate) exposure to particular herbicides
M insecticide, weed
by the incorporation of certain gene(s), modern farming practices
plant pests
either through genetic engineering or Farming practices that maximize the
Organisms that may directly or indirectly
traditional breeding methods. The herbicide amount of production per unit (either per
cause disease, spoilage, or damage to
can therefore be applied to the field for acre or per animal) while conserving soil
plants, plant parts, or processed plant
weed control without damaging the crop. and water resources. May include use of
materials. Common examples include certain
See also: USDA’s Glossary modern government-approved aids (e.g.,
insects, mites, nematodes, fungi, molds,
fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, and
viruses, and bacteria. See also: USDA’s
hormone antibiotics), which undergo extensive safety
Glossary
A chemical substance produced naturally testing before approval. See also: animal
by the body which has one or more of three antibiotics, herbicide, insecticide, pesticide
protein
basic functions: 1) enables and promotes
A molecule composed of amino acids that
normal development; 2) enables and
promotes the adjustment of performance N perform major roles in body tissue structure,
in the formation of enzymes, hormones,
level; and 3) plays a role in keeping certain
nanotechnology and various body fluids and secretions, and
physiological functions in balance.
A science that involves the design and in the transport of some substances in the
application of structures, devices, and body. Protein is consumed in foods, then
insecticide
systems on an extremely small scale, called broken down and used by the body to build
A class of crop protection and specialty
the nanoscale; that is, billionths of a meter, entirely different proteins that perform these
chemicals used to control insects on farms
or about 1-millionth the size of a pinhead. functions. See also: USDA’s Glossary
and forests, as well as non-agricultural
Potential applications related to food include
applications such as residential lawn care,
food packaging and processing to improve
golf courses, and public properties. See
food safety and quality, and better nutrient
also: pesticide
and ingredient profiles to improve health.
–47–
7 Glossary Food Biotechnology: A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding, 3rd Edition
R sustainable agriculture
An integrated system of plant and animal U
ractopamine hydrochloride production practices that will, over the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
An ingredient in animal feed that works to long term: satisfy human food and fiber U.S. government agency charged with agri-
improve the quality and protein content in needs; enhance environmental quality cultural oversight to ensure a safe, affordable,
meat. It is used by some pig, cattle, and and the natural resource base upon which nutritious, and accessible food supply. The
turkey farmers to produce lean cuts of meat. the agricultural economy depends; make USDA works to enhance the quality of life for
Ractopamine increases feed efficiency the most efficient use of nonrenewable the U.S. population by supporting production
by reducing the amount of feed and grain resources and integrate natural biological of agricultural products; caring for agricultur-
needed to produce meat. Ractopamine is an cycles and controls; sustain the economic al, forest, and range lands; supporting sound
FDA approved animal feed ingredient and is viability of farm operations; and enhance the development of our rural communities; provid-
not a hormone, an antibiotic, or a genetically quality of life for farmers and society. ing economic opportunities for farm and
engineered ingredient. rural residents; expanding global markets for
agricultural and forest products and services;
recombinant bovine somatotropin T and working to reduce hunger in the United
(rbST) transgenic organism States and throughout the world.
A protein produced through biotechnology A plant, animal, or other organism with
that has the same genetic make-up as
bovine somatotropin (BST), a naturally-
different traits from the parent organism,
resulting from the use of recombinant DNA V
occurring protein hormone produced in techniques to insert genetic material from variety, plant
cows. Somatotropin is also produced by another organism. See also: biotechnology, A group of individual plants that is uniform,
humans and most animals to support DNA, gene, genetic engineering. See also: stable, and distinct genetically from other
tissue health, maintenance, and growth. USDA’s Glossary groups of individuals in the same species.
FDA has approved the effectiveness and
Also referred to as a cultivar. See also:
safety of rbST. All milk, regardless of tillage USDA’s Glossary
production method, is safe and provides Practice of preparing the ground for planting
the same nutritional benefits. See also: and controlling weeds between plantings virus
biotechnology, FDA, gene by turning or aerating the soil. Conventional A simple, non-cellular parasite that can repro-
tillage can lead to increased risk of erosion; duce only inside living cells of other organisms.
recombinant DNA technology (rDNA) therefore, conservation tillage has been Viruses cause a large variety of significant
Breeding technique in which a copy of increasingly adopted to preserve soil, a diseases in plants, animals, and humans.
a piece of DNA containing one or a few nonrenewable resource.
genes is transferred between organisms,
virus resistant (crops)
or “recombined” within another organism. conservation tillage Plants with the ability to withstand plant
See also: biotechnology, DNA. See also: Practice that provides the aeration viral diseases. Developed through traditional
USDA’s Glossary benefits of conventional tillage, but breeding or through genetic engineering
the soil is typically not overturned. The (e.g., papaya ringspot virus-resistant
S number of trips needed by a tractor
across the ground prior to planting is also
papaya). See also: breeding
stacked traits reduced. Cumulatively, time and money

The biotechnology process by which more are saved and environmental impact is W
than one gene can be transferred, resulting improved (e.g., conserving and enhancing
the quality of topsoil, reducing pesticide weed
in a plant with two or more transgenic traits.
run-off into groundwater, and reducing A plant that is growing in an undesired
Usually a result of the crossing of two
fossil fuel use). area and is able to overtake other plants by
transgenic plants with different transgenes
overcrowding, depleting soil nutrients and
See also: genes, genetic engineering, plant
no tillage/no-till farming moisture that would otherwise be available
biotechnology, transgenic
Planting crops directly into the residue to preferred plants or crops.
staple crops of the previous year’s crop. In addition to
The most common crops in people’s diets,
such as rice, wheat, and maize (corn), which
amplifying the benefits of conservation
tillage, leaving crop residue untouched Y
provide 60% of the world’s food energy also helps to sequester carbon, a yield
intake. Typically, staple crops are well greenhouse gas, in the soil. The amount of an agricultural crop, such as a
adapted to the climate in which they are grain, fruit, or vegetable, produced in a season.
grown, and many are tolerant of drought, It can be measured in pounds or bushels per
pests, or soil low in nutrients. acre, or kilograms or metric tons per hectare.
–48–
www.foodinsight.org
This document was prepared under a partnering agreement between the United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) and the International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation to
provide vital information to communicators on food biotechnology. This partnership agreement does not constitute an
endorsement of any products or organizations that support IFIC or the IFIC Foundation.
© April 2013 IFIC Foundation

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Food Biotechnology:

3rd EDITION A Communicator’s Guide to Improving Understanding

Thank you to those who reviewed and/or contributed to the development of

Design by Boomerang Studios, Inc.

©April 2013, International Food Information Council Foundation

GLOSSARY OF FOOD & AGRICULTURAL

David B. Schmidt Marianne Smith Edge, MS, RD, LD, FADA

• Developing Your Message

• Words to Use and Words to Lose

Developing Your Message

use to provide a food supply that

Message Two: which can otherwise grow in the

Message Three: o Herbicide-tolerant crops allow natural predators of the

absorb water well, which causes

needed.64 Agriculture currently o To address the issue of crippling

Words to Use and Words to Lose

Examples of Words to Use and Words to Lose

Words To Use Words To Lose

ancestors, tradition dna, change

care, committing to cost

• Preparing the Presentation

• Tips for Communicating with Impact

• Answering Tough Questions

Preparing the Presentation

In addition, “The Role of Biotech- A successful presentation, interview,

Tips for them. Anticipate questions that

Answering Tough Tough Question:

Tough Question: Example: to reproduce; possible presence of

to health, safety, or the environment multiple and redundant biological,

13. USDA Advisory Committee on

• Facts about Food Biotechnology

• Food Biotechnology Timeline

“The biggest innovations of

“The past 50 years have been the most

Facts about Food Biotechnology

Food Biotechnology Timeline

1863 From observing pea plants in a 1875 The first higher-yield,

1992 FDA issues a policy stating that foods from

1993 Recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST)—

2008 FDA releases its risk assessment 2012 Researchers

2012 Biotech crops are planted on

2011 Additional whole foods

YOU CAN BE THE EXPERT

Regardless of the types of media out- SOCIAL MEDIA

BUILD RELATIONSHIPS Periodically send them new infor-

• Help reporters do their job:

DIFFERENCES IN NEWS MEDIA Deadline: ASAP for breaking news;

The public has taken an avid interest

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)

U.S. DEPartment OF AGRICULTURE RESEARCH & DONALD DANFORTH PLANT SCIENCE

Biotechnology information: http://www. INTERNATIONAL FOOD INFORMATION

NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES INDUSTRY AND COMMODITY

http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_ AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

BIOTECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY GROCERY MANUFACTURERS ACADEMIC INSTITUTION

C deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

glyphosate insect-protected crops nematodes

stacked traits reduced. Cumulatively, time and money