Opportunity or threat?
Organisers of a recent consumer focus group believe the British pig and poultry industries can tackle some key challenges head on when the results are revealed at the forthcoming Pig & Poultry LIVE event on May 11th.
Filming from the focus group will be used to inform the headline debate: "Consumer perceptions and what they mean for the industry" at this high profile industry day organised by The Royal Agricultural Society of England in partnership with ABN.
The group were brought together at Stoneleigh Park and asked a series of general questions about their current shopping preferences before moving onto what they thought animals are fed on and more specifically their views on GM and Processed Animal Protein (PAP). Then, following short presentations and discussions, the consumers were asked some of the original questions again to see if their opinions had changed.
With regard to GM the group were asked what the term meant to them, did it influence their shopping choices, and if they would eat food containing a GM ingredient or a product from animals fed on a GM ingredient.
A similar process followed for PAP with discussion amongst the group becoming quite animated at times.
RASE’s Kate Rider said: "The day certainly delivered some surprises, as well as messages and ideas which we look forward to sharing at the event. It was very clear that the group were open and receptive to information from the presentations, indeed some of the views expressed during the summing up will give encouragement to British pig and poultry producers, whilst others may be received differently.
"This work has set Pig & Poultry LIVE 2011 on course to be a fascinating day," continued Kate Rider. "As well as using this innovative work to inform the morning debate chaired by BBC Farming Correspondent Adam Henson, there will be an influential panel of speakers, plenty of opportunity to have your say with live voting technology and the industry will be challenged by consumer behaviour expert Philip Greaves.
"Following a networking lunch with over 60 industry exhibitors, delegates will have the chance to select from a range of technical and business workshops on topics including the Two Tonne Sow, campylobacter, the future for the egg market, risk management in feed and opportunities from energy . To conclude the day, a wrap up session will endeavour to set actions the industry will be able to take forward to encourage people to buy British and ensure a long-term viable food supply."
Places are limited so delegates are encouraged to book their place online at www.pigandpoultry.org.uk or call 02476 858 284.
