Search results
1 – 10 of 99Sarah Lefebvre, Laurel Aynne Cook and Merlyn A. Griffiths
This paper aims to examine consumers’ opinions and behavioral intentions toward foods labeled as containing genetically modified (GM) (transgenic) ingredients across plant and…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine consumers’ opinions and behavioral intentions toward foods labeled as containing genetically modified (GM) (transgenic) ingredients across plant and animal-based categories. In light of marketplace changes (i.e. labeling requirements), we explore behavioral measures based on labeling options.
Design/methodology/approach
Three studies, one online projective survey using a convenience sample of consumers and two experiments conducted with Amazon mTurk adult US participants, are included.
Findings
Consumers have negative associations with GM products vs non-GM and are more likely to purchase unlabeled GM products. GM products may offer positive economic, societal and environmental benefits. However, the need for labeling overshadows these benefits and presence of GM labeling increased avoidance. Furthermore, changes in product opinion mediate consumers’ purchase intention and willingness to pay.
Research limitations/implications
GM labeling negatively influences consumers’ opinions and behavioral intentions. This is important for legislators and marketers concerned with counter-labeling effects (e.g. Non-GMO Project Verified).
Practical implications
Debates on efficacy of labeling, inclusion disclosure of ingredients, short-term risks and long-term implications are ongoing globally. Consumer reception and purchase intention can only be changed through governmental and corporate transparency.
Social implications
Widespread misinformation about GM foods, presence in our food supply, impact on health, economy, environment and the marketplace still exists. The findings reflect consumers’ responses to changes proposed by the 2016 National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard legislation.
Originality/value
With the paucity of research on consumer response to the release of a GM animal product into the food supply, this work breaks new ground as the first to examine the impact of disclosure of GM animal-based food type.
Details
Keywords
Sharron Kuznesof and Christopher Ritson
This study employs a focus group methodology to examine the factors affecting the acceptability of gene technology in food production, using genetically modified (GM) farmed salmon…
Abstract
This study employs a focus group methodology to examine the factors affecting the acceptability of gene technology in food production, using genetically modified (GM) farmed salmon as a focus for the research. The results identified a small group of “triers” ‐ willing to try any GM food product, and a small group of “refusers” ‐ rejecting the technology and derivative products. For the middle majority of “undecided” consumers, the decision to accept or reject GM food products was based on a number of interrelated factors, associated with the food product and the benefits conferred.
Details
Keywords
Sylvain Charlebois, Simon Somogyi, Janet Music and Caitlin Cunningham
The purpose of this paper is to measure Canadian attitudes towards genetic engineering in food, for both plant-based and livestock, assess trust towards food safety and overall…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to measure Canadian attitudes towards genetic engineering in food, for both plant-based and livestock, assess trust towards food safety and overall regulatory system in Canada.
Design/methodology/approach
This exploratory study is derived from an inductive, quantitative analysis of primary data obtained from an online survey of adults, aged 18 and over, living in Canada for at least 12 months. An online survey was widely distributed in both French and English. Data were collected from 1,049 respondents. The sample was randomized using regional and demographic benchmarks for an accurate representation of the Canadian population. The completion rate of the survey was 94 per cent. Based on the sampling design, the margin of error is 3.1 per cent, 19 times out of 20.
Findings
Consumers misunderstand the nature of genetic engineering or do not appreciate its prevalence in agrifood or both. In total, 44 per cent of Canadians are confused about health effects of genetically engineered foods and ingredients. In total, 40 per cent believe that there is not significant testing on genetically engineered food to protect consumers. In total, 52 per cent are uncertain on their consumption of genetically engineered food, despite its prominence in the agrifood marketplace. Scientific literacy of respondents on genetic engineering is low. While Canadians are divided on purchasing genetically engineered animal-based products, 55 per cent indicated price is the most important factor when purchasing food.
Research limitations/implications
More research is required to better appreciate the sociological and economic dimensions of incorporating GM foods into our lives. Most importantly, longitudinal risks ought to be better understood for both plant- and animal-based GM foods and ingredients. Additional research is needed to quantify the benefits and risks of GM crops livestock, so business practices and policies approach market expectations. Significantly, improving consumers’ scientific literacy on GM foods will reduce confusion and allow for more informed purchasing decisions. Indeed, a proactive research agenda on biotechnologies can accommodate well-informed discussions with public agencies, food businesses and consumers.
Originality/value
This exploratory study is one of the first to compare consumers’ perceptions of genetic engineering related to animal and plant-based species in Canada since the addition of genetically modified salmon to the marketplace.
Details
Keywords
Lynn J. Frewer, David Coles, Louis-Marie Houdebine and Gijs A. Kleter
Food products developed using genetically modified (GM) animals may soon be introduced in Europe and beyond. Their successful commercialisation depends on consumer acceptance, and…
Abstract
Purpose
Food products developed using genetically modified (GM) animals may soon be introduced in Europe and beyond. Their successful commercialisation depends on consumer acceptance, and so it is timely to review the existing literature in this respect. The paper aims to discuss these issues.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic review identified 42 English language peer reviewed papers assessing public opinion of GM animals associated with food production. Thematic analysis was applied to the results to identify and explain consumer attitudes.
Findings
Publication peaked in 2004, and declined thereafter. European consumers were less accepting of GM animal technology than the US and Asian consumers, although the latter reported more ethical concern. Risk and benefit perceptions, ethical concerns (e.g. related to animal welfare) may explain negative consumer attitudes towards animals in food production.
Research limitations/implications
There is a lack of data on consumer attitudes to GM animals applied to food production, in particular in relation to consumers in emerging economies and developing countries. This is problematic as applications of GM animal products are about to enter the market.
Practical implications
There is a need to track changes in public opinion as GM food production animals are further developed. The introduction and commercialisation of applications with specific characteristics may further shape consumer attitudes.
Social implications
Methods need to be developed to involve consumers and other stakeholders in shaping future applications of agri-food applications of GM animals.
Originality/value
The review collates existing quantitative and qualitative knowledge regarding the drivers of consumer attitudes towards GM animals used in food production using systematic review methodology.
Details
Keywords
Qihui Chen, Gaoshuai Liu and Yumei Liu
The purpose of this paper is to examine Chinese consumers’ level of perception of genetically modified (GM) foods and the determinants of their willingness to pay (WTP) for Fad-3…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine Chinese consumers’ level of perception of genetically modified (GM) foods and the determinants of their willingness to pay (WTP) for Fad-3 GM lamb, a newly developed GM product.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on a randomized choice experiment involving 576 consumers in Beijing, the authors adopt a double-bounded contingent valuation method to estimate consumers’ WTP for Fad-3 GM lamb, as well as the causal impact of (randomized) product-information disclosure on it.
Findings
The econometric result indicates that the randomly disclosed product information describing details about Fad-3 GM lamb, the potential risks associated with the consumption of it, and the related governmental regulation policies raised consumers’ WTP by 6.2 yuan per Jin (or US$2/kilogram).
Originality/value
This paper provides new experimental evidence of the effect of product-information disclosure on consumers’ WTP for a newly developed GM food product.
Details
Keywords
George Vlontzos and Marrie Noelle Duquenne
Since the moment genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genetically modified (GM) foods first came into the market, there has been a continuous debate between those who are…
Abstract
Purpose
Since the moment genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genetically modified (GM) foods first came into the market, there has been a continuous debate between those who are supporters and opponents of them. This paper aims to identify the rationale of acceptance or denial of GM foods into the market.
Design/methodology/approach
The Health Belief Model (HBM) successfully elucidates the consumer decision-making process for food selection. The questionnaire for this field of research consists of three parts. The first part refers to socioeconomic information, like sex, monthly income and educational level. The second part contains questions derived from the HBM. Interviewees had to use a 1-5 Likert scale for their answers, with 1 representing Total Denial, 3 for Neutral and 5 for Total Agreement. Finally, the third part consists of one question about the willingness to pay for GM foods or not.
Findings
There are significant differences between Greek consumers and consumers from other European countries – the most important one being their focus on food safety and nutritional issues – with their importance not being reduced by possible pricing discounts. Increase in the market share of GM food can occur only if special focus will be given in the implementation of promotion strategies verifying about the safety of use and increased nutritional value of them, having as a second priority, the implementation of an aggressive pricing policy towards non-GM foods.
Originality/value
This is an original field research, identifying the rationale of the food selection in the Greek market towards GM foods.
Details
Keywords
Annelies Verdurme and Jacques Viaene
The aim of this research is, first, to explore consumer beliefs, attitudes and purchase intentions with regard to genetically modified (GM) food and second, based on this…
Abstract
The aim of this research is, first, to explore consumer beliefs, attitudes and purchase intentions with regard to genetically modified (GM) food and second, based on this exploration, to develop a hypothetical model which can explain and predict consumer attitudes and purchase intentions with regard to GM food. For this twofold purpose, qualitative research and a review of relevant, mainly European, literature are combined. The qualitative research comprises focus group discussions with consumers and in‐depth interviews with representatives of interested parties. The developed model suggests differences between premium branded and generic GM food products regarding the formation of attitudes and purchase intentions.
Details
Keywords
Anne Katrin Schlag and Kaja Ystgaard
Fish is considered a healthy and pure food. However, modern aquaculture introduced a range of potentially controversial issues, which may impact public perceptions. The purpose of…
Abstract
Purpose
Fish is considered a healthy and pure food. However, modern aquaculture introduced a range of potentially controversial issues, which may impact public perceptions. The purpose of this paper is to compare consumer perceptions of the production and consumption of wild and farmed fish in Europe.
Design/methodology/approach
In total, 28 focus groups were conducted in the capitals of seven European countries: France, Italy, Germany, Greece, Norway, Spain and the UK, between January‐March 2009. Data were analyzed with the qualitative software Atlas/ti.
Findings
Focus group discussions centre on a broad range of themes: economic risks and benefits, environmental concerns, human health issues, trust and nature. Europeans weigh up the scientific risks and benefits of farmed versus wild fish. However, when considering non‐scientific concerns, such as trust and nature, consumers prefer wild to farmed fish. Respondents have less trust in the production and consumption of farmed fish than in their wild counterparts, as the former are perceived as unnatural and unfamiliar.
Originality/value
Results have implications for the development of public communication strategies. The predicted growth of aquaculture highlights the importance of communicating the risks and benefits of farmed fish and fish farming effectively. The authors' findings show that a communication needs to incorporate moral and ethical risk dimensions, as these are the distinguishing areas leading to consumer preference of wild over farmed fish.
Details
Keywords
Geir Grundvåg Ottesen and Kjell Grønhaug
Aims to address the important but little researched question of why so many firms fail and so few succeed in their pursuit of opportunities.
Abstract
Purpose
Aims to address the important but little researched question of why so many firms fail and so few succeed in their pursuit of opportunities.
Design/methodology/approach
By reporting investment behaviour and performance among firms in the turbulent seafood industry, it was possible to raise important questions that guide the analysis of why some firms succeed while many fail in pursuing opportunities. Based on in‐depth interviews with top managers, the thinking and behaviour of one successful firm are analysed and compared with other less successful firms in the filleting branch of the seafood industry.
Findings
Shows with that the opportunity‐seeking behaviour of unsuccessful firms is influenced by over‐optimism, the success of other firms, and pressure to follow the “herd”. But also that the success of one firm addressed specifically is based on deep‐seated knowledge expressed as a simple rule that cuts through the various influences and guides its pursuit of opportunities.
Research limitations/implications
The study focuses on a single industry and is limited to technology investments in manufacturing firms. An important implication is that, in turbulent environments, salient and positive information may easily overshadow the actual risk in pursuing apparently clear‐cut opportunities. This implies that opportunities and their associated threat(s) should be scrutinized carefully.
Originality/value
Provides insights into the under‐researched question of why so many firms fail and so few succeed in their pursuit of opportunities.
Details