Adults in Jordan demonstrate varying levels of knowledge and awareness regarding genetically modified organisms

In many regions, public knowledge regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) remains limited, directly influencing consumer acceptance. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness (KAA) of GMOs among Jordanian adults and identify the sociodemographic determinants influencing these outcomes. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured 17-item electronic questionnaire validated by a panel of experts in nutrition and biotechnology. The survey was divided into three domains to separate factual knowledge from personal opinions.: (1) a knowledge scale assessing five factual items covering fundamental genetic concepts and local regulatory requirements; (2) an awareness section identifying initial information sources and the perceived necessity of the technology; and (3) an attitude scale utilizing a five-point Likert-type format (from Strongly Disagree to Agree Strongly) to evaluate risk perceptions, consumer behaviors, and the acceptance of four specific GM products including biofortified rice, extended shelf-life tomatoes, fast-growing fish, and GM-bacteria-derived yogurt. The tool was pilot-tested (n = 30) to ensure linguistic clarity and internal consistency. Data were collected via digital convenience sampling targeting the Jordanian public. The study revealed that objective knowledge regarding GMOs is notably low among the Jordanian public, with a mean score of 2.03 ± 1.24 out of 5 (40.6%). Significant knowledge gaps were identified in basic genetic concepts and local regulatory frameworks, though university-educated participants (p = 0.041) and students (p = 0.015) demonstrated higher literacy than other groups. Awareness was largely surface-level and influenced primarily by social media and digital platforms. Attitudinal analysis showed a clear preference for humanitarian-linked biotechnology, such as biofortified rice (41.3% acceptance), compared with commercial or animal-based applications, such as fast-growing GM fish, which faced the highest opposition (52.5% rejection). Total knowledge score was a significant predictor of acceptance for processed GM products like yogurt (P = 0.001), but did not significantly overcome skepticism toward transgenic animals. Public perception of GMOs in Jordan appears to be characterized by limited scientific and regulatory literacy and highly selective acceptance, driven by perceived benefits of the technology. The consistently low knowledge scores across most demographic strata suggest that current information channels may not be sufficiently supportive to provide a robust understanding of biotechnology. Educational initiatives and transparent regulatory communication could be needed to bridge this knowledge gap, particularly for animal-based and commercial biotechnological applications, where skepticism tends to remain relatively high across high regardless of educational backgrounds.