Abstract
The objective of this paper is to assess the attitude of Malaysian stakeholders to genetically modified (GM) salmon and to identify the factors that influence their acceptance of GM salmon using a structural equation model. A survey was carried out on 434 representatives from various stakeholder groups in the Klang Valley region of Malaysia. Public attitude towards GM salmon was measured using self-developed questionnaires with seven-point Likert scales. The findings of this study have confirmed that public attitudes towards GM salmon is a complex issue and should be seen as a multi-faceted process. The most important direct predictors for the encouragement of GM salmon are the specific application-linked perceptions about religious acceptability of GM salmon followed by perceived risks and benefits, familiarity, and general promise of modern biotechnology. Encouragement of GM salmon also involves the interplay among other factors such as general concerns of biotechnology, threatening the natural order of things, the need for labeling, the need for patenting, confidence in regulation, and societal values. The research findings can serve as a database that will be useful for understanding the social construct of public attitude towards GM foods in a developing country.
Highlights
Biotechnology has become an important field in the global market
This study proves that moral aspects of modern biotechnology had significant influence on how people perceive specific application and product of Genetically modified (GM) technology such as GM salmon
In Malaysia, GM salmon was found to be moderately encouraged by stakeholders
Summary
Biotechnology has become an important field in the global market. Genetically modified (GM) food involves the deliberate modification of plants and animals’ genetic material using innovative recombinant DNA technology [1]. Genetic engineering techniques have been envisaged as an opportunity to improve food production to fulfill consumer preferences for improved quality and diversity. The modification of food genetically has the potential to increase yields and could lower the price of food, which would boost productivity in farming and increase the supply of food for the world’s rapidly growing population [2]. Genetic modification technology holds the promise to increase food security in developing countries, negative public acceptance can affect its adoption [3]. The public’s main concerns relate to the uncertainties and possible negative effects of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on human health and the environment [4,5]. Despite the associated benefits of genetic engineering of food, its successful adoption can only become a reality if consumers accept the end-products. The future advancement of gene technology very much depends on public acceptance
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