PETA, other activist groups impacting kids: Pork Checkoff research

February 13, 2008

PETA, other activist groups impacting kids: Pork Checkoff research By Ann Bagel Storck on 1/2/2008 for Meatingplace.com Activist groups such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals are affecting children's meat-eating habits, according to research by the Pork Checkoff. The Checkoff conducted four focus groups of 10 children ages 9 to 14 around the United States. It also completed an online survey of 350 children in that age bracket. The kids were asked about their familiarity with Web sites such as petakids.com as well as their views on vegetarianism and animal care. More than half of all children surveyed have heard of "animal rights"

organizations. Among those who have heard of these organizations, nearly one-fourth report the organizations themselves have impacted their meat-eating habits. Although PETA has a low awareness among the kids, the research found, it has a high impact on their meat-eating habits. Only one-third of all youth surveyed indicated they have heard of or visited the PETA Web site, but among those aware of PETA, one-third reported having seen a video concerning animal care or meat consumption. More than half (53 percent) indicated the Web site/video had impacted their meat-eating habits. "We're keeping a close eye on these activist groups and their messages," said Traci Rodemeyer, manager of pork information for the National Pork Board. "We're prepared to take action if they escalate their efforts to target children."

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