How Do People Perceive GM and Gene-Edited Foods?

Public understanding of genetically modified (GM) and gene-edited foods has been widely studied across different countries. While some research says that increased familiarity with genetic engineering is associated with more favorable views, various studies find that public attitudes tend to be shaped by a combination of perceived risks and benefits, trust in regulatory institutions, and the credibility of information sources. Across different studies and literature, attitudes toward these technologies often reflect deeper patterns of trust, cultural values, and communication environments. In this blog, key findings from existing research on knowledge and attitudes toward GM and gene-edited foods were discussed.

Genetically Modified (GM) Foods

In 2023, a study led by researchers from the College of Development Communication at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) showed that public knowledge and acceptance of biotechnology and GM crops have improved significantly over the past two decades. They found that many Filipino stakeholders now recognize that modern technology can be used to modify nature and generally view GM foods as safe for distribution and consumption.

A study conducted by researchers from Jahangirnagar University investigated public perceptions of Bt brinjal in Bangladesh in 2024. Among the 1,000 respondents surveyed, about half were already familiar with Bt brinjal, with many of those respondents coming from science-related backgrounds. The public opinion toward biotechnology was largely positive, as 80% of respondents agreed that modern biotechnology should be used to improve crop production in Bangladesh.

In 2025, the findings of a study were released to examine public attitudes of 977 Taiwanese adults towards GMOs. The researchers from National Taiwan Normal University and partners found that awareness of GMOs was very high among the respondents. However, their understanding of GMOs remained limited, with many participants also struggling with basic genetic concepts. Despite this, public attitudes toward GMOs were generally neutral, with respondents expressing moderate concern about risks while still acknowledging potential benefits.

Earlier this year, a study conducted by researchers from FPT University surveyed 416 Vietnamese respondents born between 1997 and 2012 and found that greater knowledge increased perceived benefits while reducing perceived risks associated with GM products. The findings, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, showed that positive attitudes were the strongest factor influencing willingness to purchase GM foods. The study found that knowledge shaped purchase intention more by increasing perceived benefits of GM foods rather than by reducing concerns about potential risks.

Gene-Edited Foods

A study released in 2021 revealed significant insights about gene-edited and NPET-derived foods. The review conducted by researchers from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln found that consumer acceptance is strongly shaped by perceived benefits rather than technology alone. The study showed that willingness to consume and pay for these foods increases when they are associated with clear advantages for human health, animal welfare, or environmental sustainability.

In 2023, a study conducted by researchers from Ghent University and partners found that gene-edited foods are generally viewed more positively than GM foods, largely because they are perceived as more natural. The study also showed that consumers are more willing to pay for gene-edited foods compared to GM foods.

Several studies in 2024 further refined the understanding of public attitudes by focusing on knowledge and trust. A survey in the United States reported generally positive perceptions of gene editing among over 4,500 respondents, with many considering the technology safe. In Japan, researchers from the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization and Hokkaido University found that increased knowledge was strongly associated with higher acceptance and support for genome editing. Meanwhile, a study from Soochow University in China reported generally favorable attitudes, where over 80% of respondents expressed willingness to pay, with trust in institutions and perceived benefits playing a central role in shaping acceptance.

Based on a survey of 1,638 respondents, more recent findings from researchers at FLAME University in India, Arkansas Tech University, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the US indicate that public understanding of gene-editing technologies remains limited. Despite this, respondents expressed a willingness to seek more information about the technology. Acceptance also varied depending on the application, with gene editing in crops viewed more favorably than its use in animals or humans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the findings collectively emphasize that public acceptance of gene-edited and GM foods is not determined solely by technical knowledge but is strongly shaped by communication, trust, and the accessibility of scientific information. Key recommendations consistently point toward bridging information gaps by bringing scientists closer to end users, while also leveraging social media and government-supported education to improve biotechnology literacy. Across studies, there is a clear call for tailored and evidence-based communication strategies. The evidence suggests that fostering trust through effective communication is essential to encouraging broader acceptance of GM and gene-edited foods.

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