64% of Americans Hold Some Trust in Food Science (Image Credits: Pixabay)
A recent survey by the International Food Information Council revealed persistent trust in food and nutrition science among Americans, even as evolving dietary recommendations continue to fuel uncertainty.[1][2]
64% of Americans Hold Some Trust in Food Science
Nearly two-thirds of U.S. adults expressed at least some level of trust in food and nutrition science, according to the 2026 IFIC Spotlight Survey conducted in December 2025.[1] This figure stood at 64%, while 20% reported neither trusting nor distrusting the field. Distrust levels rose slightly to 16%, up from 12% in a 2024 survey.[2]
The survey, which included 1,018 respondents aged 18 and older, captured views just before the release of updated Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Researchers noted this timing provided a clear baseline for public sentiment. IFIC President and CEO Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak emphasized the stakes: “Trust is the gateway to behavior change.”[1]
Such confidence in science forms a foundation for public health efforts, yet gaps remain that could hinder progress.
Shifting Guidelines Leave Many Confused and Frustrated
More than seven in 10 Americans perceived dietary recommendations as constantly changing, with 72% agreeing they seemed to shift frequently.[1] This view dipped slightly from 79% in late 2024. Among those noticing the flux, reactions varied widely.
Forty-one percent reported feeling confused, 33% frustrated, and 18% stressed by the updates. Still, positive responses emerged: 29% felt curious, and 16% drew inspiration from the changes.[2] Reinhardt Kapsak addressed the challenge: “Science evolves – that’s its strength and superpower. Yet if updates are not communicated clearly and credibly, they can feel like contradictions rather than progress.”[1]
These emotions underscore the need for steady messaging to guide consumers effectively.
Credible Messengers and Clear Advice Build Confidence
Respondents identified specific qualities that boosted their trust in food advice. Evidence-based information topped the list at 58%, tied with advice described as simple and easy to follow.[1] Recommendations from registered dietitians garnered 57% trust.
- Evidence-based: 58%
- Simple and easy to follow: 58%
- From a registered dietitian: 57%
- Widely shared on social media: 29%
- Using shock or fear tactics: 26%
Trust in U.S. government food advice split nearly evenly: 32% agreed it was trustworthy, 36% remained neutral, and 33% disagreed.[2] The findings highlighted how delivery style influences reception.
| Advice Type | Trust Level (%) |
|---|---|
| Evidence-based | 58 |
| Simple/easy to follow | 58 |
| Registered dietitian | 57 |
| Social media shared | 29 |
| Fear/shock tactics | 26 |
Lower Trust Signals Opportunity for Dietary Shifts
Among those with lower trust in food science, nearly half – 48% – indicated they would reconsider their diets if confidence grew.[1] This group represented a key target for interventions.
Reinhardt Kapsak pointed to the potential: “Nearly half of those with lower trust tell us they’d reconsider their food choices if their trust improved. Building trust isn’t abstract – it has tangible implications for public health.”[2] Clear communication from reliable sources could thus drive meaningful behavior changes, especially amid economic pressures and health challenges.
- 64% of Americans trust food and nutrition science to some degree, but 16% distrust it.
- 72% see dietary advice as ever-changing, sparking confusion for 41%.
- Evidence-based, simple advice from dietitians inspires the most confidence.
As dietary guidelines evolve, prioritizing trust through transparent, empathetic messaging offers a path to empowered food choices. What role does trust play in your eating decisions? Share your thoughts in the comments.
