Claire Turnbull backs SPCA 'Blue Tick' scheme

Claire Turnbull joins as SPCA Blue Tick goodwill ambassador. Photo / Supplied

Nutritionist Claire Turnbull is the latest well-known face to back the SPCA's Blue Tick scheme to support animal welfare.

The wellness author and speaker has taken up the role of goodwill ambassador for the charity. She joins celebrity chef Ray McVinnie as an advocate for high animal welfare in farming practices.

The Blue Tick is an accreditation scheme independent from the food and farming industries run by SPCA New Zealand. The distinctive blue tick seal of approval can be found on eggs, chicken, pork and turkey products that are farmed to the scheme's stringent welfare standards.

"My grandpa was a farmer and I was brought up to understand the importance of knowing where your food comes from and how fortunate we are to have a choice about what we eat," Turnbull said.

"I appreciate and understand the different ways in which animals are farmed and I am in full support of practices that ensure animal welfare as a priority. I use SPCA Blue Tick approved products in my home and in cooking classes."

In her role, Turnbull will help increase awareness of what the SPCA Blue Tick stands for, and encourage people to choose products that are produced under high animal welfare-approved conditions -- such as the distinction between products labelled free range and free range products produced under a stringent independent certification such as SPCA Blue Tick, with announced and unannounced independent auditing.

"If people knew how some animals were really treated they would probably think twice about what they choose to buy," she said.

"I totally understand that financially there may be a slightly higher cost, but personally I would rather have fewer meat based meals and smaller portions to be able to support high animal welfare."

SPCA Blue Tick business unit manager Segolene de Fontenay said the agency was "delighted" to have Turnbull on board.

"We share a common goal with Claire; she loves inspiring and motivating people to eat well with high animal welfare at heart, and encourage consumers to choose quality products that have been farmed to high welfare standards," she said.

"Numerous research studies indicate that the meat quality is impacted by the stress an animal experiences during its life. This is something that we feel resonates with Claire and her mission of nourishing the body."