Written by Iain Hoey
A recent YouGov consumer omnibus survey conducted on behalf of First Milk found almost one-third (29%) considered the environmental impact of food before making a purchase.
The survey, conducted in late March 2021, revealed that a third (33%) of UK adults believe that farming and the production of dairy foods significantly contributes to climate change, and that almost half (46%) of UK adults believe that rearing of animals for meat consumption significantly contributes to climate change.
“This survey reinforces that UK consumers are concerned about climate change, with many taking environmental factors into consideration when choosing food,” said Mark Brooking, sustainability director at First Milk. “It also highlights the level of interest UK consumers have in animal welfare and dairy production systems.”
More than three-quarters of those surveyed said they would prefer to buy milk and dairy products guaranteed to come from cows that have access to pasture/the outdoors (78%), with almost two-thirds (63%) saying they are concerned about the welfare of dairy cows in the UK.
Mr Brooking added: “We know that the UK farming sector takes its responsibilities seriously and has a good track record in terms of animal welfare, with a growing focus on environmental responsibility, especially around climate change.
“But we all share the responsibility for communicating to consumers about the great work going on across the farming sector and highlighting the importance of the many initiatives that underline the positive benefits of UK farming and food.”
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