Eco-friendly alternatives to food packed in plastics: German consumers’ purchase intentions for different bio-based packaging strategies

Abstract

Growing concern about the environmental consequences of plastic packaging has led to the development of strategies that discourage single-use fossil-based plastic packaging and promote sustainable bio-based alternatives. Nevertheless, it is unclear how different bio-based packaging strategies are perceived by consumers. Research suggests an ambivalent relationship regarding bioplastics and a positive perception of paper. In this study, we investigated how consumers’ purchase intentions differ for two bio-based packaging alternatives—bioplastic and paper—in comparison to recyclable fossil-based plastic packaging for three products: fresh soft fruits, margarine/butter, and vegetable oil. Moreover, we explored the mediating roles of perceived eco-friendliness and perceived convenience and tested the moderation effect of green consumption values. In total, 2755 German consumers completed an online survey with a 3x3 between-subjects design in January 2022. The findings show that consumers’ purchase intentions differed between different packaging types and products. The higher consumers perceived the eco-friendliness of the packaging, the higher their purchase intention. This effect was stronger for people with higher green consumption values. While paper-based food packaging was perceived as most eco-friendly, it was not always perceived as convenient, and may therefore lead to rejection. For fresh soft fruits, paper-based packaging appears to be the best solution for consumers. For vegetable oil, the bioplastic option received the highest purchase intention. Nevertheless, there are product categories—such as margarine/butter—where the benefits of bio-based packaging are not obvious to consumers and should therefore be communicated clearly.