January 8, 2026

 

Most consumers fine with buying gene-edited pork, research found

 

 

The vast majority of consumers are open to purchasing gene-edited pork, according to new research from Circana, commissioned by PIC.

 

A survey of more than 5,000 pork consumers from eight key countries, representative across genders and ages 18 to 70, found that responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics is the top motivator for consumers to purchase gene-edited pork.

 

Conducted in fall 2025, the survey received over 600 respondents per country and marked Circana's largest, most comprehensive research to date.

 

"Circana has conducted research on this topic for more than three years, consistently finding that gene-edited pork scores in the upper quintiles, which indicates average to above average purchase likelihood," said Staci Covkin, Circana principal of innovation, consumer and shopper insights.

 

Ninety-four percent of consumers indicated an openness to purchasing pork from gene-edited pigs. Additionally, 57% of Americans indicated familiarity with gene editing, compared to 37% in December 2024.

 

Outside the United States, gene-edited pork received an above average purchase likelihood, and consumers identified that responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics would be the top benefit motivating their purchase in each geography tested.

 

Over two-thirds of consumers expressed a desire for greater transparency across pork production, believing pork products should always include additional information on the package.

 

Circana noted that these research findings closely align with recent research from The Center for Food Integrity and the Food Industry Association, which also found that gene-edited pork performed above benchmark norms for purchase likelihood. Likewise, the motivator driving acceptance was reduced antibiotics.

 

"Gene editing offers incredible promise, but success depends on connecting with consumers and delivering benefits that align with their values," said Charlie Arnot, chief executive officer of The Center for Food Integrity. "Consumers are much more open to gene-edited products when the benefits are clear, personal and values-based."

 

- Meat + Poultry