The Influence of Scientists, Agricultural Advisors, and Farmers on Innovative Agrobiotechnology

Agrobiotechnology is one of the most innovative fields of science, and its achievements are widely used in knowledge-based bioeconomy (KBBE). At the same time, some products in several countries arouse public controversy; 75% of Poles are against using genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and feed production. It should be stressed that scientists involved in molecular research play a crucial role in technological progress, as well as farmers and agricultural advisors responsible for the information flow. In order to identify the determinants underlying the perception of GMOs, qualitative and quantitative studies were carried out in 2012 and 2013 in Poland. Results of this study revealed that scientists were rather optimistic about the use of genetic engineering in the economy, agricultural advisors were mostly against the use of GMOs in food and feed production, and farmers showed particular interest in the profitability and safety of specific GM products