An evaluation of the perceptions of products derived from gene technology among undergraduates at the University of Malta

Abstract

A pilot study on the perceptions of genetically engineered-derived produce was carried out among undergraduates in their final year of study at the University of Malta. 68% of the students interviewed accepted the idea of genetically modifying plants (GM) but the idea of creating GM animals was not acceptable to the same cohort with approval falling to 30.2% of the group. Gender was found to be important in influencing choices made by students. Females were less accepting of GM organisms and they were significantly less likely to buy GM produce, such as GM derived milk (p<0.001), tomatoes (p<0.05), and beef (p<0.01) than males. Subject background was also found to influence student opinions. Students with a strong background in biology were less likely to have faith in statements concerning GM products made by the farming community (p<0.05). However, the same students were more willing to accept statements about GM products by government organisations (p<0.01) and environmental groups (p<0.05) than those who had minimal or no biology in their background. The study is interesting, as it shows that at a fundamental level, complex factors are influencing the individual's choices on biotech derived products.