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Americans Grow More Concerned About Food Safety Amid Outbreaks

The outbreak caused nearly 20,000 confirmed illnesses between May and August, compared with 1,180 during the same period in 2025, making it the largest recorded outbreak of the parasite

Photo by Arno Senoner / Unsplash

Food safety has emerged as a political issue ahead of the US midterm elections following a major cyclospora outbreak and several high-profile food recalls, according to KFF Health News.

The outbreak caused nearly 20,000 confirmed illnesses between May and August, compared with 1,180 during the same period in 2025, making it the largest recorded outbreak of the parasite. About 200 food recalls have occurred so far this year, roughly matching 2025 levels.

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Surveys indicate rising public concern. A University of Illinois and Purdue University survey found that only about 30% of consumers strongly agreed that the US food system produces safe food in August, down from 40% in November 2025.

Democrats have blamed President Donald Trump’s administration for cuts and policy changes affecting food safety agencies. The administration disputes that criticism, saying federal investigators and outbreak-response teams remain operational.

The debate also covers proposed changes to meat processing, food imports and delayed supply-chain tracking requirements. Meanwhile, experts say recall totals alone may not accurately measure food safety risks.

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