More people feel the benefits of biotechnology outweigh the risks, however, our attitudes towards genetically modified foods are largely driven by our values about science and the world around us, according to a recent study from The Australian Department of Industry Ipsos Social Research Institute and featured in the March issue of Food Nutrition & Science.

According to the study there’s more support for genetically modified foods in processed foods, and less support in fruits and vegetables. However, half of consumers believe that the benefits of genetically modified crops outweigh the risks, while one-in-six people feel the risk outweighs the benefits.

“Science and biotechnology are an ongoing part of our lives and food chain” says Phil Lempert, founder of Food Nutrition & Science and CEO of The Lempert Report.  “Farmers and schools to manufacturers and retailers, need to do is improve their communication about the process, the goals, the concerns and the benefits so it better aligns in our personal value systems.”