How do we really feel about food

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

How do we really feel about food?

A recent scientific survey of North Carolina citizens and elected officials conducted by NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences gives some interesting indications.

A response from a woman in Pender County speaks for the majority of those surveyed:
"A lot of people don’t think about what they eat because they are too busy or too rushed. They don’t want to have to think about the food industry. They just want something to put on the table."

Most people surveyed generally...

did not consider the origin of food beyond the grocery store and did not readily connect agriculture with food.

aren’t particularly interested in how food is produced or processed.

are somewhat concerned about the future of food quality, variety and cost.

aren’t aware of how important agriculture and our commodities are to the state’s economy and job market.

would buy North Carolina-grown products over food shipped from outside the state.

feel very positive about the quality of the food they eat, yet are concerned about chemical inputs, preservatives and other technologies used on food.

believe that research relating to food and farming is very important.

respect the opinions of family farmers and NC State scientists regarding questions on the environment.

believe that society should be concerned about the declining number of farms and farmers.

appreciate the importance of programs in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences that ensure safe, economical and nutritious food, a cleaner environment and strong agribusinesses.