87% of Americans Demand Stronger Food Safety Laws

A new national poll reveals a strong consensus among American consumers for tighter food safety regulations. According to the study, 87% of respondents support stronger federal oversight of food production and ingredients. Additionally, nearly half of those surveyed said they support banning artificial food dyes entirely from products available on store shelves.

This new data reflects a growing concern about the safety, health, and transparency of the U.S. food system. The poll, conducted by the environmental advocacy group Environmental Working Group (EWG), highlights the widespread demand for change in food regulation practices and ingredient safety reviews.

Health Concerns Driving the Push for Regulation

The sharp rise in public concern can be traced back to several high-profile food safety incidents, along with increased media attention on the health risks associated with food additives. In particular, artificial food dyes—commonly found in candies, snacks, and processed foods—have come under intense scrutiny.

These synthetic chemicals, such as Red Dye 40 and Yellow 5, are banned in several countries but remain legal in the U.S. despite growing evidence linking them to hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, and other health issues.

According to the EWG poll, 47% of Americans now support a full ban on artificial dyes, while many others want at least clearer labeling.

Food Industry Under Pressure

The poll results put pressure on both the food industry and regulatory agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to respond. While the FDA maintains that current levels of food dyes are safe, critics argue that its standards are outdated and based on old science.

Many advocates are now urging the agency to follow the lead of the European Union, where stricter rules on additives and clear warning labels are the norm.

Big food brands are also feeling the heat. Several major companies, including Kraft Heinz and General Mills, have started to reformulate products to remove or replace synthetic dyes, particularly in foods marketed to children. But consumer advocates say change is not happening fast enough.

Public Distrust in Food Labels

The poll also uncovered a significant lack of trust in food labeling. More than 60% of respondents said they find current food labels confusing or misleading, especially when it comes to terms like “natural,” “organic,” or “artificial.”

This confusion has led to calls for mandatory, easy-to-understand ingredient disclosures and stronger regulation of marketing language used on packaging.

“The public is clearly saying they want better protection, better labeling, and safer food,” said Scott Faber, Senior Vice President for Government Affairs at EWG. “It’s time for lawmakers and regulators to catch up with public opinion.”

Rising Popularity of Clean-Label Foods

As consumer demand for transparency grows, so does the popularity of clean-label foods—products that avoid artificial ingredients and use minimal processing. Supermarkets across the country are expanding their natural and organic sections, while brands that emphasize simple, recognizable ingredients are thriving.

According to market research firm NielsenIQ, clean-label food sales in the U.S. grew by more than 12% in 2024 alone. The trend shows no signs of slowing down.

Many consumers are now willing to pay more for foods they perceive as safer and healthier. This shift in buying behavior is driving innovation in food science, with companies exploring plant-based colors and preservatives as alternatives to chemical additives.

Federal and State Responses

In response to public demand, some lawmakers have begun pushing for legislative changes. In California, a new bill aims to ban certain harmful food additives, including Red Dye 3, titanium dioxide, and brominated vegetable oil—substances that are already banned in Europe.

The bill, known as the California Food Safety Act, has gained support from both Democrats and Republicans. If passed, it could set a national precedent and force manufacturers to adjust formulations nationwide.

Meanwhile, at the federal level, pressure is mounting on the FDA to revise its Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) system, which allows food companies to determine the safety of ingredients without agency approval.

What Consumers Can Do

Experts say consumers can take immediate steps to protect themselves and their families. These include:

• Reading ingredient labels carefully
• Choosing products with minimal additives
• Supporting brands committed to transparency
• Staying informed about food safety research and policy

Shoppers can also use tools like the EWG’s Food Scores database to evaluate the safety of packaged foods based on ingredients, nutrition, and processing.

Final Thoughts

The latest poll offers clear evidence that Americans are demanding a safer, more transparent food system. With 87% supporting stronger federal oversight and nearly half backing a ban on artificial dyes, the message to regulators and industry leaders is loud and clear: it’s time to prioritize public health over profit.

As consumers become more informed and vocal, the food industry will need to adapt—or risk losing trust. The push for clean-label, additive-free products is not just a trend; it’s a powerful shift in public values that could shape the future of food in America.

Also Read – Master Sous-Vide at Home: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Pro Tips