It has long been recognised that a key determinant of the future development of genetic engineering in food production is likely to be consumer acceptance. Much of the earlier research into acceptance issues has assumed that public perceptions of genetic engineering are deΓned by beliefs about the technology overall. However, it is now known that acceptance of novel products is unlikely to be related to general attitudes towards genetic engineering. PeopleΓs perceptions of risk and beneΓt associated with particular products and applications will determine acceptance. There is a need to develop e β ective riskΓbeneΓt communication strategies, based on the best scientiΓc information available, in order to enable the public to make informed choices about consuming the products of genetic engineering. It is also essential to develop e β ective communication methods if the public is to contribute to the wider debate about strategic development of genetic engineering. Issues of social context (such as trust in risk regulators) must also be considered. Providing information is likely to change peopleΓs attitudes, which will in turn generate further public concerns and create a demand for more information about genetic engineering.