Global public health organisation, NSF has released its compelling research findings on UK consumers’ attitudes towards animal wellness and its impact on their purchasing decisions.
The recent study conducted by NSF confirms that British consumers are highly conscious of animal wellness in food production, with a significant majority placing importance on companies demonstrating transparency and compliance in animal wellness throughout their global supply chains. While data from the UK government shows the demand for meat is at an all-time low, British consumer’s demand for ethical consumerism is growing.
Animal wellness should not be a marginal concern for brands anymore; it’s a defining feature of ethical consumerism that is increasingly impacting purchasing decisions. Animal wellness is about doing the right thing for the animal and refers to the quality of life experienced by animals in the food supply chain. Including physical and psychological health, living conditions, and how animals are handled and treated. It substantially impacts sustainability, product food safety, and the responsible use of antibiotics and medication. Our research reiterates the weight consumers place on this matter. We are increasingly called upon to support brands committed to putting these values into practice across their entire protein supply chain.
Dr. Elaine Vanier, a veterinarian and the animal wellness program lead for NSF.
Key findings from the study include:
- 68% of UK consumers say animal wellness is either very or extremely important to purchasing decisions.
- 72% of UK consumer said it was very important or extremely important that companies demonstrate consistency and compliance with animal wellness throughout their supply chain.
- 73% declared they are more likely to purchase a product that has been certified for animal wellness by a third party, especially those between the 30-44 age group, who were 87% more likely.
- Only 13% said they would be unwilling to pay a higher price for products certified for animal wellness.
- 84% expect animal products sold by international brands to comply with animal wellness standards, which rises to over 90% for Brits aged 30-44.
- Only 3 in 10 said they were very or extremely informed of UK animal wellness standards.
The revelation that animal welfare labels are often misinterpreted underscores a critical need for consumer education.
Our findings highlight a disconnect between consumer perceptions and the real standards behind labels. Clear, certified labelling is vital to bridge this gap, granting consumers the assurance they seek when making ethical food choices.
Dr. Elaine Vanier, a veterinarian and the animal wellness program lead for NSF.
For food manufacturing and agricultural companies, NSF’s research indicates that investing in animal wellness is not merely a moral obligation or marketing trend. It is a strategic imperative that resonates with countless consumers, signalling the arrival of a critical juncture for the industry to align with progressive ethical practices.
