Bettering Biotech Foods’ Foul Flavor: An Experiment on Correcting Citizens’ Misconceptions About Genetic Modification

This study aims to develop and test “myth-busting,” a promising strategy for science communicators to debunk common misconceptions among citizens. Widely spread counterfactual beliefs about biotechnologically produced food (BTF) as (a) unhealthy and unsafe, (b) unsustainable, and (c) unnatural served as context of application. A preregistered online experiment ( N = 2,925) showed that myth-busting messages effectively correct misconceptions. Trust in science but not pre-existing beliefs moderated this effect. Reduced misconceptions in turn led to greater changes in attitudes toward BTF. The study exemplifies an interesting option for science communicators to address citizens’ misbeliefs about complex science and technology.