April 2019

The American public has the right to choose what type of food to eat from the three agricultural production categories, organic, conventional or GM-based food crops, all of which are sustainable. This paper was developed to help consumers understand the specifics behind food production so that their choice is based on facts, not fear or misconceptions stemming from partial information or inconclusive evidence. There are some differences in farming practices among conventional, GM and organic farming methods but there are many practices in common.

Key Takeaways From This Study:

• Food products from conventional, GM crops and organic production practices are safe and are all highly regulated by various government agencies.
• Consumers have a variety of healthy and fresh food options from among the three production methods (conventional, GM or organic products) and should feel free to choose foods from among these different production strategies without social stigma or health concerns.
• Consumers are often willing to pay vastly higher prices for organic products even though they are not categorically more nutritious, healthier or better for the environment than their conventional or GM counterparts.
• Many consumers’ preferences for organically produced foods are based on misconceptions about perceived benefits of organic foods compared to conventional or GM products.