Role of Product Benefits and Potential Risks in Consumer Acceptance of Genetically Modified Foods

Abstract

This study examines the role of product benefits and potential risks in consumer acceptance of genetically modified (GM) foods. The study analyzes consumer willingness to consume three meat products that confer specific benefits with an inherent risk. Results indicate that respondents who were provided both the product benefit and risk information were less likely to consume the three GM food products than those who were only provided the product benefit information. Results also suggest that males are consistently more likely to consume the three GM products than females. Those who take the time to read food labels were also consistently less likely to consume the three products considered in this study. Differences in social or political values (i.e., conservative or liberal) and trust in private and public entities were not significant factors affecting consumers' willingness to accept GM foods.