Support in New England for certification and labelling of produce grown using integrated pest management

Abstract

AbstractWe surveyed a total of 549 Cooperative Extension clientele (consumers), farmstand owners, and food industry representatives in New England to assess the potential for certification and labelling of produce grown using integrated pest management (IPM). The survey elicited self-reported knowledge of IPM, perceptions of current pesticide use and IPM, and attitudes toward certification and labelling of produce as “IPMGrown.” The respondents expressed widespread support for certification and labelling of produce grown using IPM. Potential barriers to the marketing of IPM-labelled produce were also revealed. The survey showed the need for education to inform the public about pest management in agriculture and to build confidence in the safety of our food supply.