IFIC is a trusted source for food and research insights. Our research explores consumer beliefs, behaviors and attitudes on key topics spanning food safety and ingredients to nutrition and health.
Browse our flagship IFIC Food & Health Survey, monthly Spotlight Surveys, commissioned research and peer-reviewed publications.
The ties among climate change, environmental sustainability, and our food choices are becoming increasingly apparent—and for many, the through-line that connects these concepts is clear. IFIC’s 2021 Food and Health Survey found that 42% of Americans believed that their individual […]
February 10, 2022
You’ve likely witnessed someone turning over a packaged food to look at the serving size on the Nutrition Facts label with surprise. They’ve probably also said something along the lines of, “is this really how much I’m supposed to eat?” […]
January 26, 2022
In the United States, the COVID-19 pandemic has been entrenched in our daily lives for the better part of one year. In the midst of its impact on the health of many and the lives of everyone, the way we’re thinking and acting around food and […]
December 13, 2021
Highlights Imagine that you’re standing in an aisle of a grocery store. You’re tasked with choosing a product only based on the information communicated on the front of the package. Simple, right? Well, it turns out there is a lot […]
November 16, 2021
You’ve likely heard a friend, family member or coworker talk about trying plant-based meat alternatives for the first time, or maybe you’ve noticed these products on the menu of your favorite restaurant or fast-food chain. Perhaps you’ve seen a growing […]
November 3, 2021
Processed foods and beverages are found in nearly every section of the grocery store and are often part of our daily meals, snacks and desserts. But how does processing affect what Americans are buying and eating? In this survey, we […]
October 19, 2021
Food ingredients have been used for centuries to improve flavor, appearance, nutrition, freshness or texture in foods and beverages. But the names of those ingredients or how they are described can make a big difference in whether a product is […]
June 17, 2021
The options in the dairy section of the grocery store are becoming increasingly diversified with non-dairy, plant-based alternatives—whether they be yogurt, milk, ice cream or cheese. But for Americans who consume dairy, how often and why do they choose dairy […]
June 9, 2021
The 2021 Food and Health Survey marks the 16th time the International Food Information Council (IFIC) has surveyed Americans to understand their perceptions, beliefs and behaviors around food and food purchasing decisions. This year’s survey continues an examination of issues […]
May 19, 2021
It’s common to hear cautious phrases surrounding sugar intake, whether in regard to day-to-day consumption or around holidays and special occasions where food, drinks and desserts are focal points. But who do people really trust when it comes to information […]
May 5, 2021
It’s long been recognized that vitamins and minerals play essential roles in human health. But despite this appreciation, do people actually take them into consideration when making daily choices about what they eat and drink? If so, which vitamins and […]
April 8, 2021
Our dietary habits as young children have an especially strong influence over how we eat for the rest of our lives, demonstrating the importance of promoting good nutrition early on. Yet the past year has shone a spotlight on the […]
March 4, 2021
Between the popularity of plant-based eating and diets like keto and Paleo, protein continues to be top-of-mind for American consumers. But exactly when and why do people prioritize protein? What are the purchasing influencers for the variety of options on […]
January 26, 2021
We’ve almost reached the end of 2020—twelve months that have been more challenging than we ever could have predicted, defined by the upheaval of many aspects of our lives. As we mark the end of this consequential year, IFIC has […]
December 16, 2020
Cereals and pulses are key sources of carbs and protein, yet U.S. consumers have reduced carbohydrate intake over the past decade. While fiber, whole grains, and plant proteins are viewed favorably, Americans seek diverse eating styles for both health and […]
November 1, 2020
Burt KG, Fera J, Lewin-Zwerdling A. Differences in US adults’ value of and preferences for sustainable food by race/ethnicity, income, and education. J Hunger Environ Nutr. 2020;16(3):321-335. doi:10.1080/19320248.2020.1823927.
October 4, 2020
It turns out that “processed” is making an impact on Americans’ thought process, particularly when it comes to their food choices. In fact, our 2020 Food and Health Survey found that nearly half (49%) say that whether a product is […]
September 30, 2020
The International Food Information Council (IFIC) commissioned an online research survey with consumers based in the US to measure knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about food and eating habits in a global pandemic. One thousand adults aged 18+ years completed the survey from August […]
September 16, 2020
Food safety is an issue that never seems too far from our minds—whether it’s hearing about a new food recall, trying to keep our kitchens and food prep spaces clean, or learning how to shop and keep food safe during […]
September 2, 2020
“Nutrient density” is a concept that is central to making healthy dietary choices, describing the balance of beneficial nutrients in a food (like vitamins, minerals, lean protein, healthy fats and fiber) compared with nutrients to limit (like saturated fat, sodium, added sugars […]
August 20, 2020
We’re always tracking emerging trends, but your ideas could shape what’s next. Share your questions and insights—they could spark our next deep dive.