Abstract
We conducted a questionnaire survey among 1500 citizens to investigate the factors and functions of food.related risk literacy in relation to reflective cognitive style, critical thinking attitude, educational background, knowledge of risks, and scientific literacy. On basis of the data gathered and using structural equation modeling, we created a causal model of food-related risk literacy. Participants’ deliberative thinking styles and educational backgrounds had a direct effect on their critical thinking attitude. Critical thinking attitude affected scientific literacy and knowledge of food-related risks, which in turn, affected media literacy. The data suggest that critical thinking attitude is important for improving scientific and media literacy about food-related risks as it serves a mediator for the effects of reflective cognitive style and educational background.
