A nationwide poll found eight people out of 10 rate price as more important than the country of origin, and 60% do not even look to see where their food comes from.

It revealed almost half of Australian grocery buyers do not care where their food came from, as long as it is good quality and reasonably priced.

Managing director of Crossman Communications, which conducted the research, Jackie Crossman, said while price is an understandable consideration for shoppers, many farmers and local food manufacturers will be disheartened by the news, especially considering the difficulties the industry is currently experiencing.

“Australia produces some of the best quality food in the world, and our growers and manufacturers need our support,” she said.

“If we favor cheap imported food over home-grown produce, we will jeopardize even more Australian livelihoods and jobs in the agriculture, horticulture and manufacturing sectors.

Earlier this month the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) warned more job losses were imminent in the Australian food industry, following 300 job cuts in the sector, including 150 at SPC Ardmona’s Mooroopna factory and 146 at Heinz’s Girgarre facility.

 From the October 5, 2011, Prepared Foods' Daily News.