Experts Call for Stronger Farmer Education on Gene-Edited Crops

Experts from the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission are recommending stronger farmer education and peer-led outreach to encourage the adoption of gene-edited crops in the United Kingdom. The authors suggest that improving communication through trusted farmer networks and extension programs could help address remaining concerns and support wider uptake.

The paper identified three groups of farmers: eager adopters, wary adopters, and hesitant adopters. While eager adopters favored fewer restrictions, wary adopters supported gene-edited crops alongside risk assessments, traceability, and labeling. Hesitant adopters were less willing to adopt the technology and relied more on neighboring farmers than on researchers or technology providers for information. Across all groups, research institutions were the most trusted source of information, while social and mass media were the least trusted.

Based on a survey of 200 arable farmers in England, the study found broad support for gene-edited crops, with most respondents willing to adopt the technology. The researchers recommend expanding agricultural extension programs with gene-editing training, on-farm demonstrations, first-adoption initiatives, and group learning activities to encourage wider adoption. They also emphasize the use of trusted farmer networks, digital platforms, and social media to improve public understanding and build confidence in gene-edited crops.

For more information, read the study from Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy.