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Abstract
This study analyzes public perceptions of food safety using a national survey
conducted in November 2006, soon after the September 2006 nationwide spinach
recall. We explore relationships between peoples’ perceived risks of food
contamination (spinach in this case) and their trust in the institutions in charge of
safeguarding/ensuring safety. Finally, we examine relationships between individual
observance of basic good food handling practices and food safety. Trust in
institutions through which food passes and regulatory agencies were shown to be
critical in determining food safety perceptions. For example, confidence in the
USDA as a regulatory agent was viewed positively, and hence contributed toward
viewing the four types of spinach as safe for consumption. Conversely, skepticism
with which the public views food corporations (processors, transporters, or
retailers) impacted food safety perceptions negatively.