A new global survey sponsored by the Enough Movement finds families are confused with food labels because of the conflicting sources of information about food and nutrition. Key findings showed that people across the globe care about what goes in their food and on their tables, but even the most diligent consumer admitted they don’t really know the meaning of many food labels, the differences in farming methods like organic and conventional and the environmental impact.

“The farm-to-table movement has revealed that we all want to know what’s in our food and where it comes from,” said registered dietitian Susan Finn, PhD, RD, FADA. “But it’s hard to separate fact from fiction when it comes to food labels, farming practices, and other food production topics. Distinguishing myth from reality can make a big difference in the choices families make about nutrition, household budgets and environmental impact.”

Key findings include:
– Food labels are one of the most confusing topics for consumers.
– Consumers are confused about modern agriculture, farming, and food production. Modern, organic, industrial, family farm. Consumers have a lot of questions about how food is raised and how farmers care for animals and our resources.
– Food waste and loss is a top concern among survey respondents.

“The survey results underscore just how critical it is for more people to understand what goes on behind the scenes with their food,” said Janice Wolfinger, agriculture educator and farmer. “As a farmer, animal health and well-being is a top priority and we do everything we can to ensure that our animals are healthy. And as a mother, I choose to purchase foods that were grown using conventional food methods for a variety of reasons, but most importantly because I know that they’re safe for my family and they’re a better fit for our budget.”