Mapping Public Trust in Food: Who Are America’s “Trusted Voices”?

Through a monthly survey, we have been gauging U.S. consumers’ trust in key institutions and actors shaping public conversation on agri-food technologies. This project is funded by USDA–NIFA AFRI and led by the Food Choice & Policy Lab at Michigan State University in collaboration with researchers from Michigan State University and Purdue University.

We are excited to announce the release of the first edition of our report. Read the full report [link here]. This edition focuses on trust in scientists and their role in shaping public understanding of emerging agri-food biotechnologies.

A preview of our key findings: 

• Farmers, extension services, and professors rank among the most trusted entities, while consumers remain dubious about local authorities and the White House.

• Improving Food Security and Nutrition, and Advancing Medical Research Emerge as Top Priorities, Whereas Climate, Biotechnology, and Biodiversity are Viewed as Less Urgent but Still Important.

• Pharmaceutical and Medical Applications are the most accepted gene-editing applications, while Food Processing and Environmental Science are the least accepted.

• U.S. Consumers across the Political Spectrum Express a Strong Desire for Transparency about Biotechnology Use in Food Products.

• The majority supports increased government funding in Food Biotechnology, with Minimal Difference Between the Two Major Parties.

We’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Please share your feedback, suggestions, or questions, and let us know what topics you’d like to see explored in future editions.