Originally published October 19 2005
British survey finds increased public interest in diet and health research
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
A survey of 2,000 UK adults confirms that research on disease prevention, obesity and food nutrition have priority as public interests over studies concerned with food taste and flavor.
The study, carried out by MORI over the summer, was commissioned by the research organisation BBSRC to gain feedback on their current research projects and shape future work.
But it also reveals how the public views research on diet in general and shows that most Brtions are not aware of how science works or how research should be judged.
Nevertheless, the opinions gathered during two workshops and a large-scale survey of more than 2,000 adults across the UK, suggest that most people view research on protection against disease, fighting obesity and the nutritional quality of food as worthwhile areas for government funding.
Health education and health promotion are also felt to be a valuable outcome of research.
"There is very clear support among the public for ongoing research into diet and heath, even if the likelihood of a breakthrough or big leap forward is low," noted the report, available on the BBSRC website.
In contrast, research into improving the taste and colour and appearance of food is considered of low priority, and should be funded by food makers, according to those surveyed.
Among examples of foods that can have benefits, the public cited red wine, antioxidants for preventing heart disease, fish oil and omega 3 fatty acids.
But they are concerned by risks from food additives/E-numbers, red meat and its association with bowel cancer, and the impact of soya on fertility.
Britons recognise that research is needed for providing information on nutrition to consumers, and felt that this improved their freedom of choice.
"There appears to be a need for further public dialogue on the funding of research into biotechnology and biological sciences, and for communication of how dialogue has been used to steer policies and funding decisions," concluded the authors.
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