Two-thirds of British Columbians say they have a negative opinion of genetically modified (GMO) foods, according to research released by market research company Insights West.
The study also found that 56% of B.C. residents would support an outright ban on GMO foods.
Insights West also looked at Albertans' attitudes toward these foods. Although they don't feel as strongly as British Columbians about the subject, the survey found that the majority of Alberta respondent oppose GMO foods. The survey found that 55% have negative opinions of the foods, and 50% would support a ban.
Respondents with negative opinions said they felt the foods were "unnatural."
"A ban on genetically modified foods is a very attractive proposition for Albertans and British Columbians aged 18-to-34," says Mario Canseco, vice-president, public affairs, at Insights West. "Across the two provinces, those who hold negative views on genetically modified foods tend to look at them as unhealthy."
The study also found that 16% of B.C. respondents and 24% of those in Alberta had positive opinions about GMO foods. The B.C. residents who saw them as positive said they will lead to increased food production. Albertans said they could help decrease hunger.
The remainder of those surveyed said they were not sure how they felt about the issue.
There are currently no mandatory requirements for the labeling of GMO foods. This means that although some companies have added a "non-GMO verified" logo to their products, consumers may not know if they are actually buying GMO foods already.
