Poorest households least likely to want lower standard food available in the UK

“What was particularly interesting, but not surprising, was those in the lowest income groups were the least likely to think lower standard food should be available in the UK.

“This is interesting, because it is often presented as better-off people who want food standards protected, whereas in reality, it will be the people who cannot afford anything else who will be forced to have the food produced to lower standards.”

Other findings from the survey – the third of its kind carried out by Which? – showed 95 per cent of people wanted existing food production standards to be protected in trade deals, with around three-quarters believing there should be a ban on imports of low standard food.

Controversial

Ms Davies said: “When we asked about some of the production methods which are particularly controversial such as hormone-treated beef and chlorinated chicken, there is clearly a majority of people – around eight in ten – who would be uncomfortable eating those.”

Respondents to the survey were also concerned they would not be able to make an informed choice about the food they eat outside the home, with 89 per cent saying restaurants, cafes and takeaways should let customers know if the food they serve has been produced using these methods.

Worries about hormone-treated beef and chlorinated chicken being sold in hospitals were also expressed by 65 per cent of the public.