Surprising Drop: American Confidence in Food Safety Reaches All-Time Low

Americans are feeling less confident about the safety of their food. A recent survey by the International Food Information Council (IFIC) reveals that only 55% of people feel secure about the U.S. food supply, down from 62% last year and 70% in 2023. This is the lowest level in 13 years.

The survey found only 11% of respondents are “very confident” about food safety. This number has dropped significantly from 24% in 2022. The decline in confidence is seen across nearly all demographic groups.

Interestingly, many Americans are now less concerned about imported foods. Only 32% believe that these foods are less safe than those made in the U.S., a significant drop from 52% in 2014. When it comes to healthiness, opinions are mixed: 21% think imported foods are less healthy, while 19% view them as healthier.

Among those who lack confidence in the U.S. food supply, several worries stand out:

• 59% feel that profit is prioritized over safety.
• 54% think that various parts of the food system do not collaborate effectively.
• 46% believe there is insufficient government regulation.
• 43% are concerned about the number of food recalls.

Foodborne illnesses are now the top concern, with 50% of Americans ranking it as a major issue. This is a shift from last year when worries about cancer-causing chemicals were paramount. Other concerns include pesticides (46%) and heavy metals (41%). Notably, more people are worried about food additives, rising from 30% to 36%.

Tony Flood, an expert at IFIC, commented on the trend: “Even as confidence in the U.S. food supply declines, Americans seem less skeptical about imported foods.” He believes this reflects growing discussions around food safety standards in other countries. Online conversations often highlight differences in food safety practices, which can influence public perception.

Surprisingly, many Americans see a way forward. About 40% believe their confidence would increase if they better understood how food safety is regulated. A similar percentage would feel more assured with stricter regulations.

This issue of food safety highlights the importance of transparency in the food supply chain. As consumers seek clearer information about their food, the conversation about food safety continues to evolve. For more in-depth insights, you can check the IFIC Food & Health Survey here.

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