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Biotech Updates

Consumers Weigh Risks and Benefits of Animal Biotechnology

September 2, 2026

Researchers from The University of British Columbia and Drake University examined public acceptance of two emerging agricultural biotechnologies in animal agriculture: antimicrobial peptides (AMP) and gene editing (GE). A mixed-model survey of 1,340 participants from Canada and the United States found that AMP was viewed more favorably than GE, and trust in institutions strongly shaped acceptance, with people more likely to accept technologies they perceived as beneficial and low-risk. This emphasizes the importance of public trust and transparent communication as new biotechnologies are developed for animal agriculture.

As agricultural biotechnology expands into livestock, understanding public perceptions of emerging animal biotechnologies is increasingly important. Participants saw potential in AMP and GE for managing animal diseases and improving animal welfare, particularly through disease prevention and reduced reliance on conventional antibiotics. However, when given the opportunity to ask "top-of-mind" questions, participants demonstrated high engagement and curiosity. Across both technologies, public curiosity mostly revolved around human, animal, and food safety risks. These findings highlight that perceived benefits alone may not be enough to encourage acceptance without directly addressing consumer safety concerns.

Trust emerged as a central factor in how participants weighed these benefits and concerns. Those who trusted the institutions involved in biotechnology were more likely to perceive the technologies as beneficial and less risky. Perceptions of naturalness also influenced acceptance, with AMP generally viewed as more natural than GE. The researchers therefore point to responsible innovation which considers public concerns, potential risks, benefits, and values throughout technology development as one approach to building trust and fostering informed acceptance of emerging biotechnologies in animal agriculture.

Read the full article via Food and Humanity.