UK shoppers willing to pay more for improved animal welfare

animal welfare UK consumer trends University of Reading food policy farm animal welfare

New research from the University of Reading indicates that UK shoppers are willing to pay higher prices for food if it ensures improved welfare for farm animals. A survey of 3,013 individuals conducted between September and October 2024 found that 66% of respondents are influenced by animal welfare concerns when making purchasing decisions.

Participants expressed beliefs that higher welfare standards lead to healthier food, better taste, and improved environmental outcomes. The study, published in the journal Food Policy, involved thirteen scientists and veterinarians who scored the welfare of six animal types—including laying hens, dairy cattle, pigs, sheep, chickens, and beef cattle—based on factors such as housing, health, and natural behavior.

The findings are currently being used by the UK government to evaluate the costs and benefits of potential welfare policy changes.

Entities

Food Policy · Richard Bennett · UK Government · University of Reading

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 3 SOURCES] The study involved a survey of 3,013 people conducted between September and October 2024. www.thebeefsite.com · www.thecattlesite.com · www.thepigsite.com
[● 3 SOURCES] The research findings were published in the journal Food Policy. www.thebeefsite.com · www.thecattlesite.com · www.thepigsite.com
[● 3 SOURCES] The UK government is utilizing the research to assess animal welfare policies. www.thebeefsite.com · www.thecattlesite.com · www.thepigsite.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Thirteen animal welfare scientists and veterinarians scored welfare for six types of animals. www.thebeefsite.com · www.thecattlesite.com · www.thepigsite.com
[● 3 SOURCES] 66% of survey respondents reported that animal welfare concerns influence their food purchasing decisions. www.thebeefsite.com · www.thecattlesite.com · www.thepigsite.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Research from the University of Reading indicates UK shoppers are willing to pay more for improved farm animal welfare. www.thebeefsite.com · www.thecattlesite.com · www.thepigsite.com

Sources

UK shoppers willing to pay more for higher animal welfare - survey [www.thebeefsite.com]

26 days ago

UK shoppers willing to pay more for higher animal welfare - survey [www.thepoultrysite.com]

26 days ago

UK shoppers willing to pay more for higher animal welfare - survey [www.thecattlesite.com]

26 days ago

UK shoppers willing to pay more for higher animal welfare - survey [www.thepigsite.com]

26 days ago