The influence of risk perception and risk attitudes in the process of accepting genetically
modified (GM) food is often ignored, and particularly whether both constructs (latent variables) have a
combined effect in explaining consumer acceptance. Similarly, the inclusion of organic product standards
juxtaposed to GM food is unknown. This paper attempts to shed some light on this question by examining
the decision making process through the use of structural equation modeling (SEM). We use survey data
from Spain and a set of theoretical constructs that allow us to identify independent mechanisms
underlying individuals’ risk decision making. Our results suggest that the conceptualized model captures
the decision making process, and that both perceptions and attitudes toward risk have independent effects
on consumer acceptance. However, the effect from risk perception is larger in intensity. Finally, attitudes
towards organic production emerge as an informative determinant of attitudes towards GM food.
