Publication
Title
The public understanding of nanotechnology in the food domain : the hidden role of views on science, technology and nature
Author
Abstract
In spite of great expectations about the potential of nanotechnology, this study shows that people are rather ambiguous and pessimistic about nanotechnology applications in the food domain. Our findings are drawn from a survey of public perceptions about nanotechnology food and nanotechnology food packaging (N = 752). Multinomial logistic regression analyses further reveal that knowledge about food risks and nanotechnology significantly influences peoples views about nanotechnology food packaging. However, knowledge variables were unrelated to support for nanofood, suggesting that an increase in peoples knowledge might not be sufficient to bridge the gap between the excitement some business leaders in the food sector have and the restraint of the public. Additionally, opposition to nanofood was not related to the use of heuristics but to trust in governmental agencies. Furthermore, the results indicate that public perceptions of nanoscience in the food domain significantly relate to views on science, technology, and nature.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Public understanding of science: an international journal of research in the public dimensions of science and technology. - Bristol
Publication
Bristol : 2011
ISSN
0963-6625
DOI
10.1177/0963662509350139
Volume/pages
20 :2 (2011) , p. 195-206
ISI
000287848500004
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Publication type
Subject
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 08.03.2012
Last edited 23.01.2023
To cite this reference