More than 70% of American adults express concern about exposure to toxic chemicals in their food and drinking water, according to a new survey by the Pew Charitable Trusts. This public concern is pronounced, with 5 out of 6 adults indicating a desire for the federal government and industry to enhance protections, reports BritPanorama.
The survey, conducted in October as part of its safer chemicals project, revealed that 84% of over 5,000 adults believe the federal government must do more to identify and regulate harmful chemicals found in everyday products. The results showcase a pervasive anxiety concerning chemical safety, transcending age and political affiliation; nearly 90% of Democrats, about 80% of Republicans, and 81% to 86% of all age groups shared the sentiment.
David Andrews, acting chief science officer at the Environmental Working Group, highlighted the stark contrast between public sentiment and recent governmental actions, particularly those taken by the Trump administration. He cited concerns that the administration’s current policies could exacerbate risks associated with toxic chemicals, particularly as President Trump issued an executive order to increase the production of glyphosate, a chemical classified by the World Health Organization as a probable carcinogen.
In response to the critical survey findings, U.S. Health and Human Services Press Secretary Emily Hilliard stated that the Trump Administration has made significant strides in protecting Americans from toxins. However, Andrews contends that the rhetoric of safety clashes with actual policy changes that could endanger public health.
Industry cannot be trusted, survey found
Concerns extend across various sectors, with more than 60% of respondents also worried about chemicals in children’s toys, baby products, food packaging, and personal care products like makeup. Jane Muncke, managing director of the Food Packaging Forum, criticized the current regulatory landscape, asserting that more than 350,000 chemicals in commerce and 15,159 chemicals in food contact materials lack appropriate risk assessments.
The survey highlighted a widespread belief—83% of participants indicated companies responsible for chemicals in everyday products cannot be trusted to ensure safety without governmental oversight. Jennifer McPartland, director of Pew’s safer chemicals project, noted this overwhelming consensus across demographics is indicative of growing public demand for transparency and regulatory improvement in chemical safety.
As concerns over chemical exposure escalate, studies continue to link various substances to significant health risks, amplifying calls for stricter regulations and more robust safety measures. The dialogue surrounding toxic chemicals remains pressing, reflecting a society increasingly aware of the hidden dangers in everyday products.
