Paper Highlights Public Acceptance of Gene-edited Foods

Ghent University researchers and partners provided a global overview of public acceptance and stakeholder views of gene-edited foods. Their paper is published in Trends in Biotechnology.

Most public engagements of researchers and academics on gene editing are focused on its relevance in agriculture. Scientific literature, patent publications, and market reports have shown a sharp increase on its usage during the past decade. Since it is still a new technology, understanding public views and stakeholders' perspectives about gene editing is vital in projecting future applications.

Based on the paper, the following key lessons must be considered:

• Attitudes towards biotech foods, whether GM of gene-edited, are based on negative perceptions of their risk benefits and claims about being unnatural.
• Consumer acceptance, as indicated with their willingness to pay, is more positive for gene-edited food than GM food, which is also attributed to the perception that it is more natural.
• Positive attitudes about gene editing can have favorable impact on regulations and adoption.
• Acceptance of gene-edited foods at the development level may increase through presenting of benefits to the consumers.

Read more in Trends in Biotechnology.