Majority of U.S. Adults Concerned About Rising Frequency of Food Recalls

Concerns Over Food Recalls: A Survey Insight

A recent consumer survey conducted by GS1 US has uncovered alarming sentiments from American adults regarding food recalls, with 94% expressing significant concern over the increasing frequency of such incidents. This figure marks a small rise from 93% in 2025, emphasizing a growing unease among consumers about food safety. Additionally, the survey highlights a troubling trend: fewer individuals believe that recalls effectively safeguard public health and safety, decreasing from 85% to 80% since the previous year. This decline indicates a notable erosion of trust in the U.S. food supply chain.

Following notable food safety concerns, many consumers are taking a more cautious approach. The survey reveals that 67% have entirely avoided a particular category of food products after a recall—an increase from 60% in 2025. Furthermore, 66% are hesitant to repurchase the same brand or product, again showing an increase from 59% last year. Likewise, nearly 59% admitted to discarding recalled food items regardless of whether their location was affected, up from 57%. Women appear to be particularly risk-averse, with 71% avoiding entire food categories compared to 63% of men.

While only 9% of consumers indicated they would never purchase the recalled brand again, those open to the idea of re-buying are influenced by various factors. Key considerations include the duration since the recall (39%), the severity of the contamination (39%), and recommendations from health authorities (35%). These insights point to a cautious yet discerning consumer attitude as they navigate food safety concerns.

Bob Carpenter, president and CEO of GS1 US, noted: "Food recalls are one of the mechanisms that the food safety system utilizes to safeguard consumers from potential hazards such as contamination, undeclared allergens, and mislabeling. The challenge lies in enhancing recall responses to ensure precision, allowing companies to swiftly identify and eliminate affected products. Additionally, consumers require clear, unambiguous information concerning what items are impacted."

In response to this critical need for transparency, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that regulations to improve recall efficiency and food safety will come into effect on July 20, 2028. The Food Safety Modernization Act's (FSMA) Section 204 Food Traceability Rule aims to enhance tracking for high-risk foods, including leafy greens and eggs. This regulation will introduce additional record-keeping requirements, ensuring the traceability of these foods as they move through the supply chain, compelling companies to maintain Key Data Elements linked to Critical Tracking Events.

GS1 US is actively working with the food industry to implement these standards to bolster supply chain transparency, optimize data sharing, and enable quick identification of affected products. This involves ongoing education and guidance, including the FSMA Rule 204 Implementation Guideline. The adoption of two-dimensional (2D) barcodes, such as QR Codes tailored by GS1, on product packaging to promote consumer engagement is also anticipated to enhance recall management. The richer data regarding product batches or lots would allow both trading partners and consumers to access more accurate information during safety incidents.

For further details on GS1 Standards and food traceability in alignment with FSMA Rule 204, visit GS1US.org and explore complete survey findings at GS1US.org/foodrecall.

About GS1 US

GS1 US® empowers businesses to enhance supply chain efficiency, ensuring they deliver safe and trustworthy products to consumers. Widely recognized as a provider of UPC barcodes, GS1 is a global not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating standards that enable companies to identify, capture, and share reliable data linking their physical and digital operations. With millions of businesses worldwide leveraging GS1 Standards, the organization remains pivotal in powering global commerce.