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Overall Consumers Have a Favorable View of Agriculture

Results of the 2009 National Agricultural Image Survey have been released. The survey was conducted with funding from the United Soybean Board and soybean checkoff. The results provide insights into seven main issues, including: the image of U.S. poultry and livestock producers; a farmer attribute analysis; and consumer attitudes on confinement, food prices, confinement legislation, biobased products and biodiesel.

Some of the key findings from the study include:  

• Individuals who are somewhat or very favorable toward U.S. poultry and livestock producers rose from 69% in 2008 to 78% in 2009.
• Top positive farmer attributes among consumers are that farm families know about protecting air and water quality and that most farmers take good care of their animals.
• Nearly 90% of consumers do not see farmers as a major reason for increases in food prices.
• Most consumers agree that it's important to subsidize farmers to ensure a safe food supply.
• After hearing that anti-confinement legislation could force Americans to get their milk, eggs and meat from foreign producers, 78% of consumers are against the legislation.
• Consumers see energy security as the most important benefit of biobased products.