European consumers are slowly warming up to biotech foods, according to a recent report from EIT Food’s Consumer Observatory. About 40% of people are open to trying cultivated meat, while 43% are interested in precision-fermented dairy products.
However, the enthusiasm wanes for more experimental options. Only 23% would consider 3D-printed food, and just 26% are open to genetically altered foods. Key factors influencing this acceptance include sustainability, animal welfare, and transparency. Many consumers worry about the “unnaturalness” of certain products and lack trust in the technologies behind them. Price is another obstacle; people expect biotech foods to be as affordable as their conventional counterparts.
An important shift is underway, as the EU’s Biotech Act could pave the way for advancements in precision fermentation and cellular agriculture. Lorena Savani, EIT Food’s director of Biotech and Protein, underscores that consumer trust is essential for moving forward in this space. “This report gives valuable insights into how consumers view the Biotech Act and its implications for our food system,” she says.
The Consumer Observatory’s study involved qualitative discussions with 40 Europeans and a survey of 3,350 individuals across six countries, revealing a complicated relationship with biotech foods. For instance, about 87% of consumers are open to trying vegetables from high-tech indoor farms. Yet, hesitance is notably higher in countries like France (52%) and Greece (56%). Additionally, men are slightly more inclined to embrace biotech foods than women.
Age and education also play a role. Nearly 34% of young adults (ages 18-34) show willingness to try biotech products compared to just 17% of seniors (55+). Interestingly, people are more accepting of cultivated meat when it combines with plant proteins, which helps ease worries about safety and unfamiliarity.
The report highlights that consumer acceptance hinges on several factors. Key among these are the perceived effectiveness of the Biotech Act in solving food challenges, fairness toward various stakeholders, and trust in EU institutions. Those with a tendency toward healthier eating generally support the Act, indicating that personal dietary choices significantly influence opinions.
Trust also increases when clear communication comes from scientists and regulators about the safety and benefits of biotech products. While many still have mixed feelings, most participants see the Biotech Act as having at least a moderate positive impact on Europe’s food system.
Moving forward, EIT Food suggests that the success of the Biotech Act depends on instilling trust and demonstrating clear benefits. They recommend that policymakers emphasize familiar biotech examples, support farmers and small businesses, and ensure transparent oversight. If done effectively, the Biotech Act could transform public skepticism into confidence in Europe’s food future.
For further details, visit EIT Food.
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Biotech Foods, Cultivated Meat, EIT Food, EU Biotech Act
