THE STATE
OF FOOD SAFETY
IN RESTAURANT & RETAIL, 2025
Discover key insights from over 6,000 U.S. consumers on their biggest food safety concerns, what drives their trust in restaurants and retailers, and how brands can adapt to shifting expectations.
FOOD SAFETY REPORT
How Consumer Concerns, Trust Issues, and Regulatory Expectations are Reshaping Food Safety in the U.S.
OVERVIEW
KEY QUESTIONS
How much do consumers trust that restaurants and retailers are following proper food safety procedures?
What are the biggest food safety concerns that influence where consumers shop and dine?
How many consumers have experienced foodborne illness, and how does it impact their behavior?
Are consumers willing to pay more for food safety assurances, and if so, how much?
What role do government regulations and third-party certifications play in consumer trust?
How can restaurants, retailers, and food manufacturers build long-term trust and confidence in their food safety practices?
© 2025 Stampede Culinary Partners All Rights Reserved
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WHY FOOD SAFETY MATTERS MORE THAN EVER
Food safety failures don’t just damage reputations—they drive customers away for good.
More than half of consumers have boycotted a brand over food safety concerns, and many never return. Trust isn’t automatic—customers expect proof that food providers prioritize safety, from sourcing and handling to regulatory compliance.
The State of Food Safety report reveals what’s driving food safety concerns and how brands can stay ahead. With stricter regulations and rising consumer expectations, businesses that take a proactive approach will thrive, while those that wait for change risk losing customers and credibility.
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Who Should Read This Report?
Food Retailers & Grocery Chains
Restautant Owners & Operators
Food Manufacturers & Supplers
Regulators & Safety Inspectors
Journalists & Food Reporters
ABOUT STAMPEDE CULINARY PARTNERS
The industry leader in protein, with solutions for every channel and format
Stampede is an innovative protein solutions company that focuses on custom protein development and processing. We’re proud to be America’s number one pre-portioned protein supplier. Our customers include leading restaurants, top retailers, club stores, leading food service distributors, home delivery customers, military channels and more.
We create seasoned and prepared value-added meats, portion cuts and fully cooked beef, chicken, turkey and pork. But we’re more than just meat — come to us for all of your food service needs including prepared meals, soups, veggies, and vegan protein alternatives.
© 2025 Stampede Culinary Partners All Rights Reserved
INSIDE THE CONSUMER FOOD SAFETY REPORT
Listen to Brock Furlong, CEO of Stampede Culinary Partners, discuss some of the most surprising findings.
📊 Report Highlights:
- 90% of consumers believe home-cooked meals are safer than restaurant or retail food.
- 60% have experienced foodborne illness after eating at a restaurant or retailer
- 36% have actively boycotted a food brand over safety concerns.
- 83% rank food safety as the most important factor in choosing where to eat or shop.
Consumers are more concerned about food safety than ever before, with growing skepticism about restaurant and retail food handling practices, increasing awareness of contamination risks, and heightened expectations for transparency and regulatory enforcement.
Based on a nationwide survey of 6,273 U.S. consumers, this report dives deep into how trust, safety, and compliance are shaping the industry and what businesses must do to maintain consumer confidence.
Consumers Advocacy Groups
INSIDE THE CONSUMER FOOD SAFETY REPORT