Kids Confused over Food Facts

A recent MORI survey of 8-11 year olds in England and Wales shows that children's awareness of key farming and food facts is inconsistent.

The survey found that:-

• Nearly half (48%) of the children incorrectly believe that margarine comes from cows' milk
• Three quarters (76%) of children know that wheat is the main ingredient in bread
• Fifty seven per cent are unaware that spinach is grown in Britain
• Nearly 90% are aware that ham comes from pigs
• One third (33%) incorrectly believe that oranges are grown in Britain
• Nearly 90% know that tomatoes are grown in Britain
• Nearly half (45%) are not aware that cherries are grown in Britain
• One fifth (20%) of children are not aware that cheese comes from cows milk

Technical details

MORI interviewed a representative quota sample of 485 children, aged 8-11, face-to-face at home, carried out in England and Wales between 20-30 March 1997. Data have been weighted to the known population profile.