The survey results also show that 16 to 24 year-olds have been the most affected in their views on consuming meat. More than one in five (22%) said that they were less likely to consider buying and eating British meat in the current foot and mouth climate. This compares with around 15% of over 35s, and just 9% of 25 to 34 year-olds.

Sue Homeyard, director of Omnibus Services at TNS, explained "The foot and mouth crisis is clearly having an impact on the purchasing and eating decisions of a small minority of people in Britain - and particularly younger adults. However, it will be encouraging for the British meat industry - especially with the daily number of new reported cases of the disease now on the decline - to learn that the vast majority of Britons have not changed their views on British meat."

Craig Smith, editor of Marketing, added "This survey shows that British shoppers can show a high degree of loyalty and consistency in their consumption patterns. The British meat industry - and food manufacturers generally - should take heart from these results that there is considerable trust in our food production standards. The key, as always, is to maintain those high standards and to communicate consistently and honestly with consumers."

The research was undertaken on TNS’ PhoneBus survey between 20 and 22 April 2001, based on a representative sample of 1,003 British adults aged 16 years and over.