WOMEN FAVOR FRUITS & VEGGIES, MEN SAVOR STEAK
March 2, 2005, Washington, D.C. – Women are three times more likely than men are to choose fruits, vegetables and/or salads as their favorite foods, according to a consumer survey conducted by Peter D. Hart Research Associates, Inc. on behalf of the Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA).
GMA’s survey found that 30 percent of women declare fruits, vegetables and/or salads as their favorite food, while 25 percent of men identify red meat as their top choice. Only eight percent of men put fruits and vegetables at the top of their list, while the same percentage of women name red meat as their favorite food.
"The fact that women are more likely to choose fruits and vegetables as their favorite food is great news considering the Dietary Guidelines’ focus on increasing fruit and vegetable consumption," said Alison Kretser, MS, RD, GMA director of scientific and nutrition policy.
"As the primary shoppers in most households, women can set an excellent example for their families. But the reality is that convenience often takes precedence when it comes to preparing meals. The food industry’s challenge is to make fruits, vegetables and other healthy options more convenient and appealing for everyone.
"Already, consumers can find easy-to-prepare side-dishes in the frozen food aisle and ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables in the produce section. Companies will continue to introduce more products that meet consumer demand for health and convenience."
From December 27-29, 2004, Peter D. Hart Research Associates, Inc. interviewed 806 respondents who are the primary grocery shoppers in their household. The question detailed above was asked of half of the sample (402 respondents).
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Grocery Manufacturers of America is the world's largest association of food, beverage and consumer product companies. Led by a board of 42 Chief Executive Officers, GMA applies legal, scientific and political expertise from its more than 140 member companies to vital public policy issues affecting its membership. The association als o leads efforts to increase productivity, efficiency and growth in the food, beverage and consumer products industry. With U.S. sales of more than $500 billion, GMA members employ more than 2.5 million workers in all 50 states.
Contact: Stephanie Childs
(202) 337-9400 or www.gmabrands.com
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