Media coverage of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has significantly affected public perception of the technology. A study published in GM Crops & Food explores the evolution of media reportage on GMOs in Ghana following the approval of Bt cowpea, the country's first GM crop, in 2022.

The study analyzed GMO stories reported by three major digital news outlets in Ghana from January 2021 to December 2023 using eight keywords to identify relevant articles, namely GMO, GMOs, GM foods, GM crops, biotech crops, biotechnology crops, genetically modified crops, and genetically engineered crops. Within three years, the researchers collected 91 GMO-focused articles from the three media houses.

The results of the study showed that 57% of the articles published were focused on food security, which is believed to be the main interest of Ghanaian people. The study also observed a decline in media articles on controversial aspects of GM crops after the approval of Bt cowpea from the National Biosafety Authority (NBA). There has also been a 45% increase in media coverage following the approval of Bt cowpea, signifying the interest of media in science issues like GMO stories.

The study calls for scientists, industry players, government institutions, and non-government organizations (NGOs) to engage with the media and ensure accurate and informative content about GMOs. The study also recommends that the NBA should prioritize media involvement in its educational efforts. As consumer skepticism proliferates the discussion on GMOs, the researchers suggest strengthened media engagement on biosafety and food security issues in Ghana to increase public awareness and understanding.

For more information, read the journal article from GM Crops & Food.

See https://www.isaaa.org/kc/cropbiotechupdate/article/default.asp?ID=20867