Europeans see potential in innovative foods but want more information

A new European Union survey has found that while many Europeans recognise the benefits of food innovation, concerns about information, safety and transparency continue to shape public attitudes

The Special Eurobarometer survey, published by the European Commission, explores public opinion on innovative foods, ingredients and crops across all 27 EU Member States. The findings highlight the potential for new food technologies to help address challenges such as climate change, food security and changing consumer needs.

The survey, conducted between 22 May and 24 June 2026, involved 26,456 respondents aged 15 and over.

Food innovation offers potential benefits

The findings suggest Europeans see innovation as a way to build a more resilient food system. Almost seven in ten respondents (68%) agreed that innovative foods and crops could give farmers and food producers additional tools to tackle challenges such as extreme weather, pests, resource shortages and supply disruptions.

Among the products covered by the survey, fruits and vegetables grown from crops adapted to drought, pests or extreme weather received the highest level of acceptance. Half of respondents (50%) said they would feel comfortable consuming these products. This could help farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions while supporting reliable food production and supply.

Information gap creates public concerns

Despite recognising the potential benefits, many Europeans remain uncertain about innovative foods. Nearly three-quarters of respondents (72%) said they did not feel well informed about innovative foods, ingredients, and crops.

Overall, 51% reported having a negative view of innovative food products, compared with 39% who viewed them positively.

The survey also found a strong connection between information and public attitudes. Among people who felt well informed, 72% viewed innovative foods positively. This fell to just 27% among those who did not feel well informed.

Age, education, and prior exposure also shaped attitudes. More than half of respondents under 39 felt comfortable with innovative foods, compared with 34% of those aged 55 and over, people living in large towns and those already familiar with innovative foods were also more accepting.

Transparency and safety remain priorities

Clear information appears essential to building public confidence. The survey found that 85% of respondents believed innovative food products should have clear names and understandable details about their production methods, ingredients and origins.

These findings underline the importance of transparent communication and maintaining the EU’s high food safety standards as new technologies develop.

Europe’s food future

The results could help guide future research and policymaking, particularly through the EU’s Food 2040 framework, which promotes more sustainable, resilient and competitive food systems.

Food 2040 emphasises involving consumers and other stakeholders in developing new solutions, including through collaboration and real-world testing.

As Europe hopes to strengthen food security and respond to environmental pressures, the survey suggests that innovation alone may not be enough. Improving public understanding, addressing concerns and building trust will be essential to ensuring new food technologies are accepted and deliver benefits for society.