Beliefs about food supply safety: A study of cooperative extension clientele

Food scientists consider the American food supply to have a higher level of safety than ever before, yet consumers continue to have concerns about its safety. Although the use of food additives is closely regulated, the belief that additives pose a significant threat to public health has received considerable attention from the media. The safety of such compounds and processes as pesticides, antibiotics used in food production, and food irradiation is also a growing concern. Washington State Cooperative Extension clientele were surveyed to assess concerns regarding chemicals in foods and food irradiation. The purpose of this study was to gain information to be used in designing future programs in foods and nutrition