Brits avoided buying products containing palm oil, study finds
SIX in 10 Brits have actively avoided buying products containing palm oil, according to research.
A poll of 2,000 adults found 28% believe its use is unnecessary, given there are more ethical and sustainable alternatives available on supermarket shelves.
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Yet, 63% of shoppers admit they're baffled as to why palm oil appears in so many everyday items.
With products from ice cream (36%) and cleaning supplies (33%) to chocolate (31%) and biscuits (30%) causing the most confusion.
However, the study also revealed a lack of understanding around sustainable palm oil, with 80%not knowing the difference between the two types.
A fifth (22%) have heard of the term, but don't know what it really means, 28% have never come across it, and 39% only have a vague idea of how it's used.
The research was commissioned by Ferrero as part of its partnership with Chester Zoo, which has launched an online lesson for schools and families to educate about palm oil and how it can be sourced and used more sustainably.
Cat Barton, policy lead for deforestation commodities and regenerative agriculture at the zoo, said: 'Not all palm oil is made the same.
'When sourced responsibly, sustainable palm oil can actually be part of the solution – not the problem
'I've seen firsthand how sustainable palm oil can protect rainforest habitats while supporting local communities to thrive.
'It's a high-yield crop, which means it uses significantly less land than alternatives like sunflower or rapeseed oil, helping to reduce pressure on forests and biodiversity.'
The research also found 58 per cent of consumers try to make responsible choices whenever possible when it comes to shopping, and 52% have become more conscious of their habits over the past decade.
I stayed at London Zoo's transformed Christmas lodges with hot chocolate stations and private night tours
Two thirds (65% ) prioritise products with recyclable packaging, while 60 per cent actively look for items made from recycled materials.
Half (52% ) opt for Fairtrade-certified goods, and 34% seek out products that are deforestation-free.
The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found 76% believe more should be done to educate children in schools about how to make sustainable decisions that protect the planet.
Nearly two in three (63%) think teaching children about sustainability helps them to understand the global impact of everyday purchases.
And 77% believe there needs to be better wider public education around sustainable palm oil specifically.
Charlie Cayton, director of corporate affairs at Ferrero UK, said: 'There's a lot of confusion and mixed messages out there.
'Many people don't realise that choosing palm oil free can actually lead to worse environmental outcomes.
'By helping people understand the facts, we can empower them to make choices that support conservation and drive better practices across the supply chain.
'Chester Zoo is a brilliant partner to help shine a spotlight on the issue and we are so proud to be working with them on the cause.'
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