preservatives is a strong influence on the extent to which organic foods are perceived as healthier. “I suppose I try to look at the organic concept, that organic must be healthy.” , Aged 18-35 For many participants, organic foods are perceived as considerably more expensive than foods. Some participants indicated a preference for organic foods, and a desire to purchase more organic products, but were unable to afford them. “If I could, I would start buying more organic food, but it’s too expensive. It’s cost, I cut my costs all the time. I’d try to be healthier and buy better food if I had the money.” - Ballarat, Aged 36+ Scepticism regarding food claims extended even to organic foods among some participants. Concerns that foods labelled ‘organic’ may not truly be free from chemical additives caused some participants to avoid organic foods. “The main thing about organic food is that you have to trust the people that say it’s organic. A lot of it actually is, but there are some operators that claim it is when it’s not.” - , Aged 36+ Vitamins and minerals Key findings Awareness of the importance of vitamins and minerals was reasonably high among participants. Vitamins C, B-group, and D, as well as calcium and iron were the most commonly mentioned vitamins and minerals that participants considered important to consume. Fresh foods, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, cereals and meats were considered the best source of vitamins and minerals. Consuming sufficient vitamins and minerals was considered important for everyone, but especially babies and children, those susceptible to illness, pregnant women and highly active people. While levels of knowledge about sensitivity or toxicity are low, most participants believed that it is possible to consume an unhealthy amount of vitamins and minerals.
preservatives is a strong influence on the extent to which organic foods are perceived as healthier. “I suppose I try to look at the organic concept, that organic must be healthy.” , Aged 18-35 For many participants, organic foods are perceived as considerably more expensive than foods. Some participants indicated a preference for organic foods, and a desire to purchase more organic products, but were unable to afford them. “If I could, I would start buying more organic food, but it’s too expensive. It’s cost, I cut my costs all the time. I’d try to be healthier and buy better food if I had the money.” - Ballarat, Aged 36+ Scepticism regarding food claims extended even to organic foods among some participants. Concerns that foods labelled ‘organic’ may not truly be free from chemical additives caused some participants to avoid organic foods. “The main thing about organic food is that you have to trust the people that say it’s organic. A lot of it actually is, but there are some operators that claim it is when it’s not.” - , Aged 36+ Vitamins and minerals Key findings Awareness of the importance of vitamins and minerals was reasonably high among participants. Vitamins C, B-group, and D, as well as calcium and iron were the most commonly mentioned vitamins and minerals that participants considered important to consume. Fresh foods, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, cereals and meats were considered the best source of vitamins and minerals. Consuming sufficient vitamins and minerals was considered important for everyone, but especially babies and children, those susceptible to illness, pregnant women and highly active people. While levels of knowledge about sensitivity or toxicity are low, most participants believed that it is possible to consume an unhealthy amount of vitamins and minerals.