The results of a 1986 nationwide survey concerning public perceptions of agriculture are presented. Specifically, the paper reports on those questions having to do with food safety, nutrition, taste, and freshness, as well as the use of antibiotics in animal feed. An ordered probit model is used to analyze the socioeconomic factors that influenced the perceptions of respondents from the Southern region. While most respondents found food to be safer, more nutritious, and fresher than in previous times, most did not think food was better tasting. A majority were concerned about the health effects of antibiotics in animal feed.