Consumers want clearer labelling

Published 09/07/2013

Eight out of ten UK consumers want to know how their meat and dairy products are produced on pack, according to new research commissioned by Labelling Matters.

Labelling Matters is a campaign run by Compassion in World Farming, RSPCA, Soil Association and World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA).

Key findings of the research included:

73% of consumers think that method of production labelling terms, like those which exist for eggs, provide clear information for them to make an informed choice
79% of consumers think that animal welfare is important to them when deciding which meat and dairy products to buy
83% of consumers think that method of production labelling, based on how eggs are labelled, should be extended to all meat and dairy products

Since 2004, eggs sold in the EU legally have to be labelled with their method of production. For example, 'eggs from caged hens', 'barn eggs', 'free range' or 'organic'. This simple labelling change has dramatically increased the number of eggs produced cage-free. Clear, informative and honest labelling on pack allows consumers to make informed choices.

Compassion's Head of Campaigns and Advocacy, Emma Slawinski says: "This latest research proves what Labelling Matters has been campaigning for: people want honest labelling of meat and dairy products - they want to know how their food was reared and that is exactly what we intend to give them."