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Abstract
World-wide consumer response toward food products made from genetically modified
ingredients has been largely negative. However, the majority of the previous studies on consumer
attitudes towards genetically modified food products were conducted in developed countries in Europe as
well as Japan. The small number of studies conducted in developing countries obtained different results
from the developed world. This paper considers the motivations for consumer attitudes towards
genetically modified foods in developing countries. We conclude that the generally positive perception
towards genetically modified foods in developing countries could be the result of a cost-benefit analysis
consistent with expected utility theory. Developing countries have more urgent needs in terms of food
availability and nutritional content. Additionally, perceived levels of risk may be smaller due to trust in
government regulation, positive perceptions of scientific discovery, and positive media influences. This
is contrary to the small benefits and high perceived risks found in many developed countries, and hence,
the rational for low or non-acceptance of genetically modified foods in those countries.