An empirical study of protein consumption and attitudes to genetically modified food

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between expressed consumption of proteins and attitudes towards GM foods. 600 shoppers in a city centre supermarket were surveyed concerning attitudes towards GM foods and the frequency of consumption of various proteins. In addition, various demographic variables were measured. In terms of demographics, sex was the best predictor of consumption and attitudes, followed by socioeconomic status and age. Attitudes were found to correlate positively with consumption of several proteins. Explanations are offered in terms of the theories of reasoned action, cognitive dissonance and attribution and the health belief model.