Public View on Transgenic Organisms in Chahar Mahal va Bakhtiary Province

The acceptance of a new technology by consumers is the most critical stage in the development of that technology. This study investigated perception and attitude towards genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and biosafety in Chahar Mahal va Bakhtiary Province. A questionnaire containing personal information with 39 questions was prepared and distributed among participants in 1387. The results indicated that education level, education field and job had the highest impact on public perception of GMO and biosafety. Around 30% of respondents had no information about GMO and close to 33% of them disagreed with the production of these organisms. Around 60% of respondents agreed with biotechnology and transgenic plants and believed that they are necessary for modern agriculture. Near to 17% of participants had no information about biosafety and close to 33% of respondents had a little information about biosafty. More than 90 % of respondents were not familiar with biosafety regulations for controlling the risk of GMOs. Results indicated that mass media were not active in this field and they should play more effective role in this area to improve public perception about GMO and development the public acceptability of GMO.