Survey finds most Americans are concerned about the safety of food
According to the survey, Americans trust claims tested and certified by independent organizations more than claims made by product manufacturers and brands.
NSF International, Ann Arbor, Mich., released a new study showing 61% of Americans are concerned about the products they put in, on and around their bodies. However, 34% say they rarely or never research product claims. And, almost half (46%) of Americans say they have purchased a product despite being unsure of the validity of product claims.
The online survey conducted in February polled a representative sample of 1,000 Americans about their concerns related to food, among other non-food items. The survey reveals a nearly a 50/50 split between people who say product claims are helpful and those who say they are confusing, overwhelming or meaningless.
According to the survey, Americans trust claims tested and certified by independent organizations more than claims made by product manufacturers and brands. These findings suggest self-declared claims made by brands and manufacturers without any independent verification may contribute to consumer confusion and mistrust.
“It’s clear that many consumers have questions and concerns about the safety and authenticity of the products they buy, but they don’t always know whom to trust or where to turn for an honest answer,” says Lisa Yakas, senior product certification manager. “As consumers, we increasingly want brands and marketers to back up their claims with data and to prove products contain only the ingredients that are listed on the label.”
Highlights from the survey include:
The findings suggest many consumers are unsure how to research and verify claims for themselves, and may be unaware of third-party certification programs operated by independent organizations and governmental agencies.
The study also drilled down into consumer views of specific product categories and found: