Search Results (81)

With the increasing awareness of health among residents, consumers are paying more attention to their eating purposes and food safety when choosing fruits. This study aims to explore the impact of eating purpose on consumers’ preferences for fruits and fruit products under the mediation of color perception. The study obtained experimental data from 489 urban consumers in China through the Credamo data collection platform. Furthermore, four experimental groups were set up to propose six hypotheses based on the influence of eating purpose on consumer preferences for fruits and their products. The study utilized Likert scale questionnaires, chi-square tests, and variance analysis for data mining and cross-validation. The results indicate that the visual characteristics of fruits (especially color) affect the purchase preferences of consumers with different eating purposes. Approximately 65% of health-oriented consumers are highly sensitive to the color and nutritional value of fruits. They believe that fresh fruits are rich in natural nutrients and play an important role in maintaining health and preventing diseases. Meanwhile, around 62% of consumers with specific nutritional needs prefer processed fruit products, such as fruit preserves or dried fruits. These consumers have a weaker perception of color and focus primarily on the functionality of the fruits. Additionally, the study found that safety/taste preferences acted as a mediator and associative learning as a moderating variable. Around 58% of consumers indicated that their purchase preferences are influenced by safety and taste, and the relative importance of safety and taste preferences significantly mediated the relationship between eating purpose and purchase preferences. Under the moderating effect of associative learning, health-oriented consumers, when associative learning is activated, are about 45% more likely to choose fresh fruits. The study highlights consumers’ health-conscious perceptions in fruit selection, focusing on how color perception moderates the preference choices of different consumer groups based on their eating purposes. It emphasizes the need for businesses to adjust product positioning and marketing strategies according to consumer perceptions to promote broader healthy eating behaviors. Full article

Snack foods are increasingly important because of irregular eating patterns in busy lives. Many consumers state that reading ingredients is important to them making rational choices when consuming snacks. This study investigates consumer’s reported avoidance of a wide range of 20 current and potential snack food ingredients. A survey of approximately 630 consumers in each of 13 countries was conducted using a Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) method. Cochran’s Q test was performed to compare percentages of avoidance among countries, and correspondence analysis and cluster analysis were conducted to visualize the similarity of avoidance tendency among countries. Results showed a high tendency to avoid insect powder, SAPP, and BHA, perhaps because of connotations such as disgust or their “non-natural” connotations. The aversion rates for soybean, corn, wheat flour, and pea flour were low. Significant differences (p < 0.05) between countries were found for all 20 ingredients. The countries were grouped into seven clusters based on similar avoidance tendencies. This research offers insights into consumer perceptions of snack food ingredients, helping manufacturers understand ingredient avoidance across cultures. These findings support tailored product strategies to enhance food safety policies. Ultimately, the study contributes valuable data for global marketing strategies and promotes innovation in response to health-conscious consumer trends. Full article

Food environments (the interfaces between consumers and the broader food system) shape dietary change and associated health outcomes. Characteristics of food environments (e.g., availability, accessibility, affordability, convenience, desirability) can influence consumer decision-making around food acquisition in different types of food environments (e.g., informal and formal markets, wild and cultivated natural environments). With the novel decision matrix approach presented in this paper, we aimed to develop a simple and rapid tool for collecting perceived evaluations and preferences of different types and characteristics of food environments. The decision matrix results were triangulated using a mixed methodology of geolocated participant observation, participatory mapping, market price comparisons and qualitative interviews. The decision matrix results were compared to the reported use of different food environment types in an Indigenous Pgaz K’Nyau community in Northern Thailand. Despite an ongoing food environment transition, participants preferred natural food environments and ranked market environments most poorly, largely reflecting actual food environment use. Interviewees stressed the importance of flavor and food safety, citing concerns over agrochemical contamination of market foods. The proposed decision matrix and mixed methods approach provides a rapid data collection method that can be used by food environment researchers and public health practitioners to assess food environment preferences and perceptions that influence decision-making in food environment transitions in low- and middle-income countries. Full article

Food safety is a fundamental component of public health, economic stability, and consumer confidence. In Portugal, the National Integrated Multiannual Control Plan (NIMCP) serves as a strategic framework for ensuring food safety and compliance with European Union food regulations. However, challenges persist in policy implementation and enforcement, as well as in stakeholder engagement, which impact the effectiveness of food safety governance. This study employs a mixed-methods approach to assess stakeholder perceptions of the NIMCP, focusing on levels of compliance, barriers to its implementation, and potential improvement measures. A structured online survey was conducted with 217 stakeholders, including representatives of public institutions, private entities, associations, and consumer groups. The survey assessed the perceived importance of the NIMCP objectives and levels of compliance and identified barriers, such as a lack of communication between public entities, the dispersion of responsible agencies, and insufficient dissemination of information. The results indicate that stakeholders perceive a satisfactory level of compliance with the NIMCP objectives, especially in areas such as animal health and risk control. However, challenges persist in ensuring plant health and implementing official controls. Furthermore, stakeholders highlight systemic inefficiencies and resource constraints. The main barriers include fragmented governance structures, limited inter-agency collaboration, and insufficient professional training. Stakeholders proposed various improvement measures, emphasizing the need for better coordination, planning, and communication, including awareness campaigns for operators, the creation of an integrated IT network, and the development of training programs. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) revealed that risk control and consumer protection are top priorities for all stakeholder groups, while plant and animal health receive lower priority. The study concludes that while the NIMCP is generally perceived as effective, addressing systemic issues such as coordination, communication, and resource allocation is essential to improving food safety governance. Policymakers are encouraged to adopt a more structured and integrated approach to improve implementation of the NIMCP, ultimately strengthening public health protection and consumer confidence in the food supply chain. Full article

Australia, which has one of the world’s highest per capita meat consumption rates, is hesitant toward adopting alternative proteins. This study examines consumer perceptions of protein alternatives and their perceived safety, nutritional value, health risks, cost and willingness to incorporate them into their diets. Using a mixed-methods approach, a survey of 520 Australians aged 18 to 64 revealed that while alternative proteins are viewed as occasional dietary options, younger consumers—despite their tendency to favour traditional food choices—show interest in plant-based milk and algae-based products. However, across all generations, interest in regular consumption of plant-based meats, insects and cultured meat remains low. These findings highlight evolving attitudes, challenges to market growth, and the importance of fostering greater consumer trust to encourage wider adoption of alternative proteins. Addressing generational differences in adoption and resistance will be essential for expanding market penetration. Full article

Pesticides are very important in modern agriculture, protecting crops against pests and diseases to ensure food safety. However, the use of pesticides in food production has raised significant concerns regarding their potential impacts on human health and the environment. This review provides comprehensive insights into the current status, future projections, and debates surrounding pesticides in food. Beginning with a historical overview of pesticide use in agriculture, the types of pesticides commonly used and the presence of their residues in food commodities are explored. The health and environmental impacts associated with pesticide exposure are examined, including both human health effects and ecological consequences. An analysis of the regulatory frameworks governing pesticide management at international and national levels is presented, along with emerging trends and future projections in pesticide technologies and agricultural practices. Strategies for mitigating pesticide risks, such as Integrated Pest Management and alternative approaches to conventional pesticide use, are discussed. Finally, the controversies surrounding pesticide use, including public perception, consumer concerns, and policy debates, are addressed. Through a critical examination of these issues, this review underscores a growing need for innovative solutions that can effectively balance agricultural demands with human health and the environment, enabling more resilient and sustainable food production. Full article

This study explores consumer perceptions of the Greek food system, focusing on safety concerns related to pesticide residues. Utilizing a qualitative research design, thematic analysis was conducted on data collected from 1024 participants through an online survey platform between May and November 2024. Participants, representing diverse demographics across Greece, provided insights into their experiences and concerns regarding food safety. The analysis revealed significant themes, including a crisis of confidence in governance, demands for transparency, and skepticism towards food system actors. Participants expressed disillusionment with the state’s role in ensuring food safety and highlighted the need for a governance framework that aligns with community values. The findings underscore the importance of empowering consumers with accurate information to foster informed decision-making and rebuild trust in the food system. Ultimately, this study emphasizes the necessity for a transformative approach to food governance that incorporates diverse voices and perspectives, aiming to create a more equitable and sustainable food system in Greece. These insights contribute to the broader discourse on food citizenship and the collective responsibilities of all stakeholders in ensuring food safety and integrity. Full article

The growing consumer interest in functional foods and healthy eating can unfortunately lead to the spread of misinformation and the belief in food-related myths. This study analyzed Brazilian consumers’ perceptions and beliefs about facts and myths regarding functional foods, focusing on attitudes, reference groups, and sociocultural factors affecting their perception. A theoretical model was developed, incorporating constructs such as attitudes (reward, trust, necessity, safety), beliefs, and reference groups. Data from 600 participants in the Southeast (n = 300) and Northeast (n = 300) of Brazil were collected through online questionnaires, with responses measured on a five-point Likert scale. Myths (widely held ideas lacking scientific basis) and ‘facts’ (evidence-based information) regarding functional food were selected via literature review and validated by nutrition experts. Structural equation modeling revealed that perceived necessity and reward were positively associated with myths, while safety perception was negatively associated with myths. Reference groups and beliefs were positively associated with facts. Cluster analysis identified two consumer profiles: (1) safety-conscious individuals, who prioritize food safety, and (2) engaged critics, influenced by reference groups and actively seeking information. These findings highlight the importance of culturally tailored communication strategies for countering myths and promoting functional foods in Brazil. Regulatory bodies in Brazil must enhance oversight of health claims to build consumer trust and encourage informed choices, fostering mindful consumption habits. Full article

The development of sustainable food production requires reducing the strain from present production systems on the environment using novel/disruptive technologies, one of which is to use grass as an abundantly available raw material, either minimally processed grass or grass-derived ingredients. With grass supplies readily available and the potentially significant carbon footprint reduction that this technology offers, this is an opportunity for sustainable production of much-needed food ingredients for human consumption. This study investigates UK consumers’ acceptance of grass-derived ingredients and examines the factors influencing their willingness to adopt these innovations as part of their diets. This study was conducted through a cross-sectional study in the UK, in which the participants were divided into three groups based on meat avoidance, i.e., meat reducers, meat avoiders, and meat consumers. The key findings emphasise the importance of education on grass-derived products to enhance consumer awareness and confidence. Other factors—such as age, meat attachment, grass-derived ingredients’ characteristics, social norms, and attitudes—have influenced willingness to try (WTT)/accept grass-derived ingredients. The findings suggest that while grass-derived ingredients in human diets may struggle to gain positive perceptions, targeted product development and marketing strategies tailored to highlight grass-derived ingredients’ nutritional benefits and safety are key to reshaping perceptions and fostering consumer readiness for novel food technologies in the UK. Full article

Consumer perception of foods processed by emerging technologies has been scarcely studied. This study aimed to evaluate the perception of vegan and non-vegan consumers regarding probiotic almond-fermented beverages processed by ultrasound using the packaging of the products (pasteurized/conventional, processed by ultrasound, and processed by ultrasound with a claim on the label). A “Check All That Apply” test with emojis and the Food Technology Neophobia scale were used. The “processed by ultrasound” information did not impact the purchase intention and the perception of healthiness, safety, nutrition, environmental impact, flavor, texture, and price of the products. The claim inclusion increased the perceived acceptability and purchase intention and improved the emotional profile. The vegan consumers showed a more positive perception of ultrasound processing, resulting in increased perceived acceptability, higher citation frequency of positive emoji, and lower sums for the neophobia scale. Vegan and non-vegan consumers agreed that the most important attributes for consumer acceptance are almond aroma, flavor, and consistency. In conclusion, the “processed by ultrasound” information did not negatively impact the acceptability and emotional profile of probiotic almond-fermented beverages, and using a claim on the label may improve consumer perception of the products. Full article

This study investigates the relationship between political orientation, government change, and public satisfaction with food policies in the Republic of Korea. Utilizing data from the Consumer Behavior Survey for Foods (CBSF) conducted by the Korea Rural Economic Institute from 2020 to 2021, we employ fixed effects models to examine the impact of political orientation, the presence of a conservative government, and their interactions on satisfaction across various dimensions of food policy. We also analyze the change in satisfaction levels from 2020 to 2021 based on shifts in political orientation. The results reveal complex dynamics between political alignment, government performance, and public perceptions. While conservatives and liberals exhibit higher satisfaction with labeling policies, they show lower satisfaction with safety and redress policies. The presence of a conservative government is associated with higher satisfaction in specific policy areas but lower overall satisfaction. Changes in political orientation significantly influence policy satisfaction, with shifts away from conservatism and towards liberalism leading to decreased satisfaction. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the nuanced preferences of different political groups and the need for responsive and transparent food policy frameworks. This study advances the theoretical understanding of the political economy of policy satisfaction and provides novel policy implications for effective governance. Full article

The consumer decision-making process for buying food products is based on various factors. One of these is the perceived value that the consumer acquires upon seeing a certification label, such as “Protected Designation of Origin” (PDO) and “Protected Geographical Indication” (PGI), which is an indicator of product quality and the degree of sustainability of the supply chain. The aim of the study is to identify the main factors influencing the behaviour and purchasing intentions of Italian consumers through the divulgation of a survey and the application of a statistical approach. The results were elaborated upon using a conceptual model, estimated following the partial least squares approach to structural equation modelling. As a result, the perception of quality influences purchasing decisions and food patterns, as labels play an increasing role in contemporary society, thus making quality standards relevant for the buying outcome. This research contributes to supporting studies on the importance of certifications of origin, as well as highlighting that food safety is a major determinant in the purchasing of certified food products. Full article

Meat quality and shelf life are important parameters affecting consumer perception and safety. Several factors contribute to the deterioration and spoilage of meat products, including microbial growth, chemical reactions in the food’s constituents, protein denaturation, lipid oxidation, and discoloration. This study reviewed the development of functional packaging biomaterials that interact with food and the environment to improve food’s sensory properties and consumer safety. Bioactive packaging incorporates additive compounds such as essential oils, natural extracts, and chemical substances to produce composite polymers and polymer blends. The findings showed that the incorporation of additive compounds enhanced the packaging’s functionality and improved the compatibility of the polymer–polymer matrices and that between the polymers and active compounds. Food preservatives are alternative substances for food packaging that prevent food spoilage and preserve quality. The safety of food contact materials, especially the flavor/odor contamination from the packaging to the food and the mass transfer from the food to the packaging, was also assessed. Flavor is a key factor in consumer purchasing decisions and also determines the quality and safety of meat products. Novel functional packaging can be used to preserve the quality and safety of packaged meat products. Full article

Online food-safety educational programs are increasingly important to educate different populations as technology and culture shift to using more technology. However, the broad effectiveness of these programs has yet to be examined. A systematic review, random-effects meta-analysis, and thematic synthesis are conducted to identify the effect size of online food-safety educational programs on knowledge, attitudes, and practices of consumers, food workers, and students and their respective barriers and recommendations. Online food-safety education was found to be of moderate and low effectiveness, with attitudes being the lowest in all populations. Consumers struggled with staying focused, and it was found that messaging should focus on risk communication. Students struggled with social isolation and a lack of time, and it was recommended that videos be used. Food workers struggled with a lack of time for training and difficulty understanding the material, and future programs are recommended to implement shorter but more frequent trainings with simple language. Future online food-safety educational programs should focus on incorporating social elements, as they can remain a huge barrier to learning. They should also focus on changing the participant’s attitude to risk perception and beliefs in the importance of food safety. Full article

Agricultural waste can be used as a plastic filler during the production of packaging, reducing the environmental impact and raw material consumption while supporting the circular economy. Despite so many efforts being made in development and characterization, consumers’ behavior toward packaging containing agricultural waste as a plastic filler for food is still unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate consumers’ awareness of and liking for packaging containing agricultural waste as a plastic filler and consumers’ perception and purchase intent of food in such packaging. Consumer survey research was conducted using an in-person questionnaire containing Likert scale, hedonic scale, and guide-type questions completed by 86 participants after showing them bread packaged in pouches made of plastic containing agricultural waste and a prompt in August of 2019. The responses were first analyzed as a whole and further evaluated using demographic and psychographic characteristics. Participants liked the use of agricultural waste to produce food packages and were willing to purchase food (bread) in this novel packaging. The aspect “reduction of harmful environmental impacts” was very important to participants if they were to purchase packaging containing agricultural waste. About 50% of participants were unsure of the performance of this packaging in terms of food quality and safety and >25% perceived no effect. Differences (p ≤ 0.05) within the groups for specific demographic and psychographic characteristics and two-way interactions between them were found. This study shows that food packaging containing agricultural waste should be well received and that packaging choices that affect the environment, like packaging containing agricultural waste, depend on consumers’ mindset. Thus, educating consumers could contribute to reducing the packaging impact on the environment and to boosting environmentally friendly packaging acceptance. Full article