Historical reconstruction of the introduction, spread and dispute regarding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Brazil: to the Legal Contentions of public opinion

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the process of introduction, dissemination and dispute regarding the authorization of GMOs in Brazil, focusing on the case of transgenic soybeans. In this paper will be emphasized too contentions on the labeling and research related to public opinion. It will be shown that disputes relating to GMOs were very polarized in Brazil and took place as conflicts of risks. It will be seen that the labeling of these organisms is controversial and is currently being questioned in the National Congress. Finally, the survey will show that the consumer seems to be more concerned with issues related to contamination (biological and chemical) and with nutritional characteristics of foods than the biotechnology.