Risk perception about GMOs and food choices among adolescents attending secondary schools: a Tuscan case

Young consumers’ (students attending secondary schools) risk perception of biotechnologies, in general, and of GMOs, in particular, were investigated in Valdinievole (Italy), using a questionnaire adapted from Eurobarometer 64.3. The relationship between the social status and cultural capital of the students’ families and their food choices were explored. A total of 502 questionnaires were completed. The adolescents’ knowledge seemed rather confused and the answers were related more to the type of school attended rather than the cultural capital and/or social class of the family. In order to make informed decisions, educational training is needed. The schools should serve as a channel through which students gain information.