Sure, it may be cheaper to buy a dozen eggs from a national company than to buy a dozen cage-free organic eggs from a local provider, but according to a new survey by Context Marketing, people are now willing to pay.

The online survey, which was conducted in January 2010 and included 600 adults between the ages of 20 and 64, found 70% of national respondents believe ethically produced food is better for the environment, 60% believe it’s healthier, and 58% believe it’s safer to eat. In addition, seven out of 10 people are now willing to pay more for ethically produced foods.

“Consumers are paying more attention to ethical brand claims as a way to identify foods that are of higher quality as well as to support brands they see acting in a socially responsible way,” said Bob Kenney, Context Marketing principal.