If consumers knew more about how to use fresh pork, they might buy more.
That was one of the suggestions garnered from a recent consumer survey done for Ontario Pork by Ipsos North America.
Ipsos spokesperson Kate Stiefelmeyer says the survey showed consumers had limited knowledge of pork cuts beyond the big three - chops, ribs and roasts.
"The majority of consumers have never purchased other pork products other than those three products and the big three are primarily barbecued, suggesting that consumers are less comfortable preparing pork products that aren't barbecued or that take some more time."
The survey results suggested consumers rate pork alongside beef in some of the key attributes, including preparation and enjoyment.
They also believe pork is affordable and a good value.
Stiefelmeyer says the results would indicate producers should look for ways to educate consumers on how to use other fresh pork products beyond the big three.
"They just need to become more comfortable with other pork cuts. They need to become more comfortable with other cooking methods other than barbecuing and pan frying. And there's a way to use the key drivers to teach versatility and cooking methods using lessons from outside the home."
She also suggests producers work with grocery and discount food retailers to make all cuts of pork more visible to consumers.
Ontario Pork commissioned the survey to get a better understanding of attitudes and usage of Ontario pork products by the province's consumers.
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IPSOS spokesperson Kate Stiefelmeyer says those key attributes include preparation and enjoyment by the whole family.
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Stiefelmeyer says pork chops, roasts and ribs tend to be the most identifiable fresh pork products for consumers.
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Stiefelmeyer says the survey included a look at how fresh pork compared with other meats on some key attributes.
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