Journal of Food Processing & Technology

Abstract

Chinese Consumers' Attitude towards Genetically Modified Foods-Taking Genetically Modified Soybean Oil as an Example

Ming Xia

China is the largest importing country of Genetically Modified (GM) soybean produced in the USA. Oil made from the GM soybean is the main edible oil for Chinese consumers. Chinese traditional culture does not against the GM food, but since 2013, some celebrities has taken a public stand against GM food, and following these celebrities, Chinese consumers has showed diverse attitude toward GM food. This study investigated Chinese consumers’ attitude toward edible oil made from GM soybean based on a survey conducted in Hangzhou China. The findings revealed that most Chinese consumers generally hold positive or neutral attitude toward GM soybean oil, and rarely have sufficient biological knowledge. Respondents’ age and educational background do not correlate to their acceptance of GM soybean oil. Income level is the most important factor influencing Chinese consumers’ acceptance. The growth of Chinese consumers’ income and negative publicity from social media might cause Chinese consumers’ attitude toward GM soybean oil more conservative in the future. The promotion of GM soybean oil in China will be more difficult and challengeable.