From Science to Skepticism: American Perceptions of Food Safety

Amid growing skepticism and shifting food values, Americans are increasingly making up their own minds about what’s healthy and safe to eat—decisions often based on perception rather than science. While food safety is rooted in rigorous scientific standards, that’s not what resonates most with consumers. Instead, they’re looking for clear, actionable, and relatable information from sources they deem worthy of their trust. This presentation reveals emerging trends in how consumers evaluate food safety, what factors shape their decisions, and how communicators can bridge the gap between scientific advancement and consumer relevance to better support informed decision-making in today’s complex food environment.