Mixed nutritional messages may push the consumer towards an unhealthy diet,claims Ruth Patterson, lead author of a study into eating habits and attitudestoward food and nutrition guidelines. Patterson and colleagues from the USFred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, surveyed the eating habits of 1,751 Washington adults and their feelingstowards nutritional guidelines.

Some findings showed that more than 40per cent agreed that dietary guidelines should be taken with a "grain ofsalt." and 70 per cent believed that the government should not tell peoplewhat to eat. Researchers developed a "backlash" scale based on respondents?negative or sceptical responses. Those who ranked highest on the scale alsohad the highest percentage of fat in their diets.

Patterson said she fearsthe nutrition backlash could undermine efforts at nutrition education. Butthere is hope for educators, 90 per cent of those surveyed said they believethat nutrition research eventually will help them live longer lives.

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