72% of Americans want changes to produce safety activities
18th November 2008 by Alex Briggs
72% of Americans want the federal government to establish new safety standards for the growing, harvesting, processing and distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables even if they increase costs, according to a national survey commissioned by the Produce Safety Project (PSP), an initiative of The Pew Charitable Trusts at Georgetown University.
Conducted by Peter D. Hart Research Associates and Public Opinion Strategies, the survey found deep discontent - 75% of likely voters — with the current voluntary system: 36% favor “complete overhaul” and 39% want “significant changes.”
“Consumers don’t want the produce section of their grocery stores to be casinos where they roll the dice on their family’s health and safety,” said Jim O’Hara, PSP director. “And they are shocked to learn that their tax dollars are being spent on an honor system. They want cops on the beat.”
