Livestock farmers’ perceptions towards genetically engineered methods and genetically modified organisms in Denmark and Sweden

Abstract

Although studies paid extensive attention to consumers' perceptions towards risk related to genetic engineering (GE) methods and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food, farmers' views have been under-researched. Understanding what shapes farmers’ perceptions towards potential risks by GE methods in food production matters, because as producers and suppliers of such food products, farmers affect their use and commercialisation. Scientists have debated and disagreed on the safety of GE methods and GMOs and their impact on biodiversity and environment over the years. These disagreements impeded the extensive GMO food production in the EU, which is also reflected in consumers' perceptions about potential risks by using GE methods concerning health safety and nutritional value of GMO food.¹.This paper does not evaluate the potential benefits or hazards of these methods. Instead, based on primary survey data, it investigates and compares the aspects livestock farmers perceive as important towards GE methods and GMOs in Denmark and Sweden. we. The analysis demonstrates that farmers’ perceptions towards potential risks using GE methods and GMOs differ among types of producers within each country and between the two countries. These differences in perceptions are attributed to socio-economic characteristics (age, education, economic benefits, and farming activities), sectoral organisation, trust in suppliers and the social environment within which farmers operate in rural areas.