Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on consumers’ perceptions of genetically modified food

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has generated significant economic loss and an unprecedented challenge to people’s livelihoods. Using household data collected in November 2020, this study shows that the COVID-19 outbreak has significantly affected consumers’ perceptions and consumption of genetically modified (GM) food in China. Their perceptions and purchase intentions have turned more negative, and their actual purchase of GM food has decreased after the COVID-19 outbreak. The study’s results also indicate that consumers with more knowledge of genetic modification technology are less likely to change their perceptions of GM food.