WILL NEW ZEALANDERS BUY OUR GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FRUIT AND VEGETABLES?

The article discusses consumer perceptions of genetically engineered fruit and vegetables in New Zealand. While there have been no commercial GMO crops grown in the country, researchers have explored whether New Zealand consumers would buy them if they were available. Recent research shows that most Australians and New Zealanders are uncomfortable with genetically engineered food, suggesting a market advantage for non-genetically engineered and organic produce. Consumer knowledge about genetic engineering is limited, and their opinions are primarily driven by social values and trust in government, industry, and environmental groups. Māori perspectives on gene technologies are diverse, with concerns about commercialization and genetic engineering of taonga species. The article emphasizes the importance of considering ethics and societal benefits when introducing genetically engineered traits in crops. [Extracted from the article]