Treating NGTs as Conventional Products May Improve Market Acceptance

A study from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore) analyzed consumer attitudes toward foods developed using New Genomic Techniques (NGTs), focusing on how labeling influences purchase intention. The findings provide significant insights into the approaches that could boost market acceptance of NGT products.

The paper examined consumer responses to four different labeling scenarios for NGT-based food products. In these labeling scenarios, the researchers found that treating NGTs as conventional products showed no significant difference in purchase intentions. They also found that positive front-of-package (FOP) claims (e.g., reduced pesticide use), alongside NGT or GMO labels, helped mitigate consumers' negative perceptions.

The findings of the study suggest treating NGTs as conventional products with no separate labeling. The study also revealed that consumers, particularly the younger generation, respond more positively when environmental benefits are highlighted in the packaging of the product. While this approach could boost market acceptance, strategies must still be developed to address underlying consumer sentiments regarding GM-related terminologies.

Read the abstract for more information.