Poultry producer Foster Farms released survey findings examining how the economy is impacting consumers’ lives, including grocery shopping and meal preparation. The survey found that West Coast consumers are heavily impacted by the recession and that they have adapted their shopping and cooking habits to increase savings. Consumers are also moving away from viewing food as entertainment and are eating healthier by going back to the basics.

Survey highlights:

• West Coast families have been hit hard by the economy, with one in four respondents personally affected by job loss or foreclosure and 40% of respondents knowing 2-5 people who have been similarly affected.
• The majority (55%) of consumers surveyed said grocery shopping has become more difficult when compared with last year.
• 22% of West Coast consumers are having difficulty or can no longer afford to feed their families as well as they want, due to the cost of groceries.
• Despite the poor economy and rising food prices, 78% of consumers said that grocery shopping is something that they feel they can control, versus other economic factors.
• 79% of those surveyed said they are now shopping smarter and feel a sense of accomplishment when they save. 36% said their family is eating healthier in this economy.
• 64% of respondents said they are eating at home at least one more night a week instead of going out.
• 88% of respondents agree that family meals provide a source of comfort.
• Despite the economy, most families (70%) will enjoy the same meals they always have over the holidays, without sacrificing quantity or the quality of foods prepared.