%0 Journal Article
%T Genetically Modified (GM) Foods/Organisms: Perspectives of Undergraduate Medical and Dental Students of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
%J Food and Public Health
%@ 2162-8440
%D 2012
%I 
%R 10.5923/j.fph.20120206.14
%X Genetically modified (GM) food/organism is a product of recombinant DNA biotechnological procedures which allow the genetic constitution of an organism to be modified for specific ends such as: nutrient fortification, faster growth, improved organoleptic characteristics, and resistance to pesticides, amongst others. The study assessed the knowledge, attitude and consumption practices of GM foods among 318 undergraduate medical and dental students of the University of Lagos, using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using EPI-INFO version 6.4. Approximately half (53.1%) of the respondents were females and 46.9% were males with mean age of 21.3 ¡À 2.67 years. Awareness about biotechnology and GM foods/organisms was high (87.3% and 72%, respectively). However, knowledge regarding specific details about GM technology was poor. Less than one-quarter (16.7%) had good knowledge about GM foods while approximately four-fifths (83.6%) of them had negative attitude toward GM products. Gender (p=0.0008) and course of study (p=0.0002) were significantly associated with knowledge levels. Similarly, knowledge was significantly associated (P =0.0066) with the attitude of respondents towards GMFs/GMOs. Attitude also significantly influenced choice between traditional and GM foods if the prices are the same (p=0.003) and choice if price is different but quality is the same (p=0.018). In conclusion, the study revealed that undergraduate medical and dental students of the University of Lagos, although were aware of GM products, however knowledge about specific details concerning GM technology was poor, attitude was largely negative, with a large proportion of respondents expressing concerns of safety and protection of consumers¡¯ rights. This expectedly influenced their preference for traditional (organic) foods over GM foods. A more inclusive approach, comprising of a comprehensive enlightenment of young adults about the GM technology detailing its components, challenges, opportunities and prospects in addressing the global food crisis is recommended.
%K Genetically Modified Foods
%K Traditional/Organic Foods
%K Medical
%K Dental Students
%U http://article.sapub.org/10.5923.j.fph.20120206.14.html