Meat-Eaters Prefer Not To See Animals On Meat Labels, Research Finds

A survey conducted by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) found that meat-eaters prefer not to see images of the animals they are consuming on product labels. Nearly two-thirds of meat-eaters in the study found food imagery more appealing for pork products than pictures of pigs. The AHDB's research also revealed that most shoppers are put off by seeing animal imagery on packaging, indicating a disassociation commonly used by meat-eaters to avoid feelings of guilt.

The AHDB launched an advertising campaign aimed at increasing demand for meat and dairy products, particularly among younger consumers. However, even a more positive portrayal of animal agriculture proved too much for most meat-eaters. Some have suggested implementing more honest "cigarette-style" labeling for meat products to reduce consumption, highlighting the disconnect between the reality of meat production and consumer preferences.