Viewpoint

Here, a monthly perspective from Consumer Reports on the latest challenges—and possible solutions—facing U.S. consumers today. See archived installments of Viewpoint.

49.9

That’s the percentage of ground turkey in test samples that the USDA allows to be contaminated with salmonella. Consumers Union, the advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, says that’s unacceptable. Ground turkey from a Cargill plant in Arkansas recently sickened 107 people.

Miles to go

The issue

Automakers are revving up for proposed government standards that would raise fuel economy to 54.5 mpg for cars and light-duty trucks by 2025.

Our take

An aggressive standard that includes a long lead time for carmakers will foster the development of affordable, quality cars that use less gas.

Today carmakers’ yearly offerings of new vehicles sold in the U.S. must average 27.3 mpg. That requirement will rise to 35.5 mpg by 2016.

Moving to a 54.5 mpg average by 2025 would save consumers thousands in fuel costs over the life of the vehicle.

Although not directly comparable, Consumer Reports’ auto tests have already turned up admirable highway fuel economy: 55 mpg in a Toyota Prius hybrid and 49 mpg in a Volkswagen Golf diesel.

While most automakers say they support the new standards, there’s a long road ahead before they’re fully developed and implemented. Consumers Union is on the alert for any efforts to create big loopholes.

Quotable

"There’s nothing like an all-expenses-paid vacation to a five-star resort to make an artificial hip look interesting."

—Maggie Kozel, M.D., on the Huffington Post website, writing about corporate influence on health care. Medical-device industries wine and dine specialists to win their business. In January, strict disclosure rules take effect for medical-device and drug companies that pay or give gifts to doctors. Consumers Union supports the effort.

Web watch

Pain in the plastic? If you have a complaint about a credit card, go to www.consumerfinance.gov. Fill out the easy online complaint form on the website of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The CFPB will send it on to the card issuer and keep you updated on the status. You can also call 855-411-2372.