Cypriots demonstrate heightened sensitivity to food safety issues, with an impressive 95% expressing concern, significantly surpassing the EU average of 72%, according to the latest Special Eurobarometer survey conducted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
The survey, which took place across all EU member states from March to April 2025, highlights that food safety is a crucial factor in purchasing decisions for Cypriots. A notable 67% prioritise food safety when making choices, compared to just 46% across the EU.
Cost remains a vital consideration, with 74% of Cypriots indicating it as their primary concern, while the EU average stands at 60%. Interestingly, 39% of Cypriots feel they have adequate knowledge to avoid or mitigate food risks, which exceeds the 30% European average.
Despite this knowledge, a mere 34% of Cypriots view food sold in the market as inherently safe, falling below the EU average of 41%. This statistic reflects a heightened level of caution among consumers in Cyprus.
Chemical contamination emerges as the predominant worry for 47% of Cypriots, placing Cyprus at the top of the EU in terms of concern over this issue, far exceeding the 28% EU average. Additionally, pesticide residues are a significant worry for 49% of the population, compared to 39% across Europe. The fear of food poisoning from bacteria, viruses, and parasites concerns 41% of Cypriots, significantly higher than the 32% EU average.
Animal diseases, whether affecting humans or animals, are concerning for 44% of Cypriots, again surpassing the EU average of 30%. Furthermore, worries about food additives such as colours, preservatives, and flavourings are expressed by 42% of the population, compared to 35% across the bloc.
When it comes to information sources, television remains the primary medium for 56% of Cypriots, matching the EU average of 55%. However, social media and video platforms are notably more popular in Cyprus, reaching 56% of the population, compared to just 26% across the EU.
Trust in information sources is high among Cypriots, with 85% placing their confidence in university scientists and public research organisations, closely aligning with the 84% EU average. Doctors are trusted by 83% of the population in Cyprus, though this is slightly lower than the 90% EU average.
In scenarios involving foodborne illnesses, a substantial 78% of Cypriots would alter their food preparation or consumption habits, which is similar to the 77% average across the EU. The most significant response rates come from those aged 25 to 39, where 86% would make changes.
Trust in EU food safety systems is robust, with 83% of Cypriots recognising that the EU bases its decisions on scientific advice, compared to 76% EU-wide. This confidence underscores the importance of scientific guidance in shaping food safety policies.
