A recent study by the NPD Group shows U.S. consumers are more educated about genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, as well as the benefits of using them in the food supply. The study also finds that many consumers are still concerned. The NPD Group, a global information company, says over half of consumers in 2013 had little to no knowledge of what GMOs are, but in 2016 that number has shrunk to a third. The study also shows that as consumer awareness grows, they do recognize the benefits of using them to produce better and more resilient crops. Many consumers who are aware of the benefits still seem to have concerns, making GMOs still the fastest growing food additive concern. Although GMO awareness is growing, the study says most consumers don’t seem to know that the government recently passed a GMO labeling law that goes into effect in 2018. “With the increasing awareness and concern, consumers would benefit from hearing from food manufacturers the reasons why they use GMOs and how it benefits their customers,” said Darren Seifer, NPD Group food and industry analyst. “Consumers today want to be informed and appreciate it when food companies make an effort to educate them.”
From the National Association of Farm Broadcasting news service.