Investigation on cognition and demand for food health and safety knowledge about genetically modified foods among residents of Shenzhen city

ObjectiveTo study the Shenzhen residents'cognition and demand for health and safety knowledge about genetically modified foods(GMF),as to provide base for GMF promotion.MethodsA questionnaire was self-designed.A total of 1475 phone numbers were picked out randomly for phone survey.Results322 phone numbers survey was completed.The percentage of awareness and acceptance to GMF were 36.3% and 16.67% respectively,only 2.68% of the respondents had well known GMF.50.36% of the respondents considered GMF is not related with their lives1Awareness rate increased with the higher educational level,and decreased as the age increased.The rate of acceptance to GMF was related with knowledge and age of respondents.The acceptance rate of respondents aged between 16～24 and those who heard of GMF was higher.66.29% of the respondents wished to get more information about the health and safety of GMF,and GMF safety was considered the most important information(50.93%).ConclusionIn order to protect the public rights to the truth,the right to choose and the right to health,relevant government departments should enhance the propaganda and education of GMF.