Not all New Zealanders are onboard with the idea of genetically modified food

An Otago University study asked 300 young adults their feelings about genetic modification and irradiation techniques in food.

They found many had a visceral reaction to irradiated food, not based on fact - as they associated it with radiation and radioactivity.

Genetically modified food, meanwhile, saw improved evaluations when consumers had time to reflect - but untreated food was still the preference.

The authors say genetic modification evokes feelings of artificiality and contamination - despite strong scientific evidence suggesting it's safe.