The best way to meet the evolving needs of our consumers is to take the time to listen to what they have to say. That’s exactly what researchers did at Michigan State University in a recent Food Literacy and Engagement Poll. With 1,059 U.S. residents participating, the survey highlights some key perceptions our consumers have about food. Based on respondents’ thoughts, the results also help us identify areas where we can do a better job of educating the general public about food.

As reported by TheConversation.com, here are six trends revealed from the poll results:

According to the article, “The majority of respondents were young and affluent, and also more likely than their peers to describe themselves as having a higher-than-average understanding of the global food system. The full survey revealed that much of the U.S. public remains disengaged or misinformed about food. These findings are problematic because food shapes our lives on a personal level, while consumer choices and agricultural practices set the course for our collective future in a number of ways, from food production impacts to public health.”

So what can we do about this growing disconnect? It all starts with stepping outside of our comfort zones and identifying opportunities to share factual information. This might be through social media or one-on-one conversations in your community. It may even be through online reviews on consumer products.

With the recent partnership of Amazon and Whole Foods making headlines, soon, more consumers will have access to value-added, specialized products at the click of a button. Often, these products come with a myriad of claims, and while these labels appease a certain type of customer, they also tend to lead to further confusion and a heightened sense of mistrust over conventionally-produced foods. This brings me back to my point that perhaps we as producers need to be a voice of reason through online reviews of these products in order to reach folks who may be unnecessarily paying more for a food based on fear or guilt.

Perhaps it’s easy to say, not my circus, not my problem. After all, ranchers are certainly busy taking care of business at home. However, if we don’t carve out the time to address some of this consumer confusion, you can bet environmental and animal rights activist groups will be more than happy to fill in the gaps for us.

The opinions of Amanda Radke are not necessarily those of beefmagazine.com or Farm Progress.