AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE CONSUMER ACCEPTANCE OF GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS AT THE CHRIS HANI DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

Consumer acceptance of genetically modified odd food products remains a critical factor that
will affect the future growth of agricultural biotechnology. Hence, the aim of this study was to
investigate the consumer acceptance of GM foods in Chris Hani District Municipality. In this
regard, a survey of 60 individual interviews (consumers) and 6 focus groups were conducted in
Queenstown in August and September 2013, to determine consumer acceptance towards
genetically modified (GM) foods.
Above a third (38%) of the respondents were aware of GM foods, mostly from newspapers,
television and radio. Others had learned about GM crops at school, newspapers and television
that were more important to more educated consumers. Consumers acknowledged the
technology’s potential positive impacts, with more than 80% (of those who know a lot) assenting
that it increases productivity. Fifty one percent said they would buy GM foods at the same level
as their favourite brands, although many had concerns; group discussion respondents feared that
GM technology could lead to a loss of biodiversity and affect non-target insects, and had
concerns about the effects of GM food on human health in the longer term.
It is concluded that GM technology has a role to play in food security in South Africa. However,
consumers need more information about the technology, which can be provided through
established sources of information. Finally, consumer acceptance should be studied regularly,
and the survey population was broadened to include rural consumers.