Evaluating consumer beliefs for traditional and localised foodstuff under economic stress

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine the changes on food consumption patterns of households, following an economic crisis and recession. This paper identifies objective and subjective factors influencing consumers to purchase, or not, traditional and localised food. Furthermore, an impact assessment based on environmental and social criteria for food selection, like locality of production and healthy nutrition habits is conducted. Quite enlightening is the research on the spatial basis. The results of this approach signify the different consumption trends dominating the urban, semi-urban, and rural areas. There are also some implications for marketing and public policy makers to further strengthen consumption of traditional and locally produced foodstuffs, such as promotion of their nutritional characteristics, support of local economies, encouragement for adoption of healthy eating by children, as well as enjoyment of cooking.