Source: Rita Jane Gabbett, MEATINGPLACE, 7/14/16

A survey commissioned by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) indicated consumers do not understand the true meaning of food labels such as “cage free” and “free range.”

The survey, conducted by Lake Research Partners polled 1,000 American adults who purchase or consume meat, eggs or dairy products, drawn from a national sample of internet users.

The survey also showed that, despite their misconceptions, approximately three quarters of consumers surveyed are concerned about the welfare of animals raised for food and are paying more attention than they were five years ago to food labels that indicate how those animals were raised.

“Consumers are willing to pay for more humane options but need help understanding which labels provide meaningful welfare improvements for farm animals," said Daisy Freund, Director, ASPCA Farm Animal Welfare Program.

The research showed 65 percent of consumers surveyed believe the term “free-range” ensures that the animal spent most of its time in a pasture. The ASPCA noted there is no legal definition of “free-range” for pork, beef or dairy products. On poultry products, birds must have access to the outdoors.

Nearly half of those surveyed believe that an independent inspector verifies the health and welfare of animals living on most farms. The ASPCA, however, claimed there is no independent inspection or oversight of animal welfare on the vast majority of farms – a fact that sparked concern in three quarters of survey takers.

“I’m surprised to see that ASPCA’s recommendation fails to include the most established farm animal care certification program, American Humane Certified established by the American Humane Association, which is also the U.S.’ first animal protection organization,” Animal Agriculture Alliance President Kay Johnson Smith
told Meatingplace in an email. “I am not sure why AHA’s program is not referenced by ASPCA - perhaps because it works with the farm community to elevate animal care rather than relying on calling farmers’ commitment to caring for their livestock and poultry into question.”

According to the survey, 67 percent of consumers polled said they are likely to buy meat, eggs and dairy products bearing a welfare certification label with meaningful standards, even if it meant paying a higher price for those products. In addition, 75 percent of consumers would like stores to carry a greater variety of welfare-certified meat, eggs and dairy.

“There is no question that animal welfare is extremely important, and there is merit to the recommendation that consumers should vote with their wallets to purchase food and other products that meet both their values and budgets,” said Smith.

“Unfortunately, this announcement by ASPCA appears to be another attempt to malign hard working farm families who do an excellent job in caring for their animals and land while ensuring a safe food supply but without paying for certification by organizations who promote the reduction or elimination of animal products, or align themselves with groups who do.”

Smith added, “It’s important for consumers to know that America’s farm and ranch families work hard every day to provide care for their animals, following science-based guidelines developed by veterinarians, animal care experts and those with the most experience in raising animals and producing food.”

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