Sustainable Food Consumption Research Articles

Effectiveness of the Eco-Score Food Label: An Information Experiment Combined with Nutri-Score Label in Belgium

Consumers’ food choices significantly impact the environment, with food production contributing substantially to global greenhouse gas emissions and water use. In response, policy interventions such as front-of-pack eco-labels aim to guide consumers towards more environmentally friendly food choices. The recently introduced Eco-score aims to guide consumers toward environmentally friendlier food choices. However, evidence regarding its effectiveness, particularly when used alongside the Nutri-score, remains limited.A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 607 Belgian respondents. Respondents assessed their perceived environmental impact of food products with various Eco-score and Nutri-score combinations. They were randomly assigned to one of two conditions, where one group saw both labels, while the other saw none when assessing the food products. Generalized linear models were used to determine if the Eco-score improved accuracy in assessing the environmental impact of food products, and a structural equation model analysed factors influencing the intention to use the Eco-score.Results show that the Eco-score enhances accuracy in environmental impact assessment, particularly when respondents are knowledgeable about the Eco-score and indicate environmental concerns. However, effects were less pronounced for products with conflicting Eco- and Nutri-scores, potentially due to cognitive dissonance. Furthermore, factors such as knowledge about and positive perceptions towards the Eco-score significantly influenced the intention to use it.The Eco-scores’ potential as a tool to guide consumers towards more environmentally friendlier food choices is validated by their positive perception and enhanced evaluative capacity among a representative sample of the Belgian population. Further research and a broader implementation are necessary to assess the long-term impact and utility of the Eco-score in promoting sustainable food consumption.

The Examination of Apple Shelf Life from Consumer Storage Perspective

Proper storage and preservation of apples is essential for consumer satisfaction and the efficiency of the food industry. The aim of this research is to investigate in detail the impact of different storage conditions on the physical and chemical properties and shelf life of apples, with particular emphasis on the differences between store and home storage. In the experiment, commercially available Golden Delicious apples are stored in cold storage at two different temperatures (5°C and 10°C) and known relative humidity (85 RH%) to simulate consumer storage conditions. The study is conducted for 10 weeks, with weekly sampling. The parameters analysed include physical properties such as weight, size, colour and meat firmness, as well as chemical properties such as sugar and acidity. Statistical methods are used to collect and analyse the data and to search for correlations and relationships between the different parameters in order to help consumers to effectively preserve and evaluate the quality of the apples. Home storage of apples plays an important role in economic processes, as it contributes to reducing food waste and promoting more sustainable food consumption. If consumers are able to store apples properly at home, less fruit is wasted, which reduces food waste.

Examining the Sustainability of Food Consumption Based on Religiosity Dimensions in Urban and Sub-Urban Communities

Research Originality: This study offers a new perspective on the relationship between religiosity and sustainable food consumption in urban and peri-urban communities in Lampung, Indonesia. Research Objectives: The objective was to examine the differences in sustainable food consumption between urban and peri-urban communities, exploring the role of religious beliefs in shaping consumption behavior.Research Methods: A quantitative approach using comparative analysis was used. Data were collected from 250 respondents using purposive sampling, analyzed through statistical tools such as the Shapiro-Wilk Normality Test and Independent Sample t-test.Empirical Results: This study found that there were no differences in consumption behavior between urban and suburban communities with the dimensions of religiosity in the aspects of beliefs and practices. There were differences in consumption behavior between urban and suburban communities with the dimensions of religiosity in the aspects of knowledge and behavior.Implications: This study highlights the need for policymakers and businesses to consider religious factors in promoting sustainable consumption, suggesting that urbanization and access to religious education influence food choices based on religiosity.JEL Classification: D12, D19

From Knowledge to Action: The Power of Green Communication and Social Media Engagement in Sustainable Food Consumption

Understanding what drives sustainable consumer behavior is crucial for effective green marketing strategies. We set out to explore the mechanisms explaining the relationships between environmental attitudes, perceived environmental knowledge, and green consumption values on consumer behaviors, specifically the mediating roles of receptivity to green communication and social media engagement with environmentally friendly firms. We also investigated the moderating role of information seeking in these relationships. Data were collected through a survey of 610 Greek respondents between May and July 2024 and analyzed using IBM SPSS and AMOS version 23. Findings show significant and positive paths between green consumption values and receptivity to green communication, e-word-of-mouth intention, food behavior, and other environmental behaviors, while receptivity to green communication and social media consumers’ engagement with environmentally friendly firms has a significant and positive impact on e-word-of-mouth intention and food behavior. Findings reveal that credible and detailed communication is essential for engaging information-seeking consumers, who are more critical of green messages.

Differences in perspectives on sustainability attributes of dietary protein sources between reduced animal-based dieters and nondieters

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals envision a sustainable future that includes a shift in food consumption, aiming to reduce anthropogenic environmental impacts. Protein sources are crucial in sustainable diets because of their high environmental influence. Although consumers play a pivotal role in driving the shift towards more sustainable food consumption patterns, research on the perceptions of specific dietary groups regarding protein sources is limited. In this study, the perceived sustainability attributes of eight common protein sources between reduced animal-based dieters (RABs) and nondieters (NDs) were evaluated. Using a cross-sectional survey, we measured demographic data, food consumption frequency, perceived healthiness, and environmental friendliness. We performed conjoint analysis on the importance of the protein sources’ sustainability attributes (nutritional score, ecological score, price, product category). In total, 294 RABs and 247 NDs participated. The majority of the sample consisted of highly educated, childless women aged 18–39 years with high incomes, residing in cities, and responsible for food in their households. The presence of a nutritional score had a positive effect on both consumer groups’ perceptions of product sustainability, whereas the presence of an ecological score negatively affected consumer preferences for more sustainable products. The perceptions of the sustainability of protein sources varied significantly between RABs and NDs. Overall, RABs underestimated the healthiness of animal-based products, whereas NDs underestimated the environmental impact of protein sources. Among the animal-based protein sources, eggs and fish were seen as the most sustainable, with significantly higher means for NDs (p < 0.001). Among the sustainability attributes, plant-based foods and nutritional scores had a significant positive effect on both groups’ choices. For RABs, all animal-based protein sources had a significant negative effect on food choice. These results support the assumption that nutritional scores can improve the nutritional quality of food choices, whereas ecological scores can reduce the environmental impact of food choices. These findings underscore the need for tailored communication strategies and interventions to promote sustainable food choices among diverse dietary groups.

The role of “localness” in sustainable food consumption: insights from sustainable coffee in Thailand

Purpose We investigated consumers’ environmental, social and local beliefs and their impact on attitudes, subjective norms and willingness to pay for sustainable coffee in the understudied context of Thailand.Design/methodology/approach The study is based on a survey of 253 Thai consumers, analysed through an extended model of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB).Findings The study validates the TPB model in the Thai demographic, finding a significant positive impact of environmental and local beliefs and subjective norms on willingness to pay for sustainable coffee. More importantly, it proposes an extended model of TPB, stressing the central role of “local beliefs” in sustainable consumption in a Global South context.Originality/valueThis study demonstrates the importance of “localness” in the practice of sustainable consumption in Thailand, namely the beliefs in the support for the local economy and prosperity for the local community. This expands our understanding of the heterogeneous meanings associated with the practice of sustainable consumption in a South-East Asian context.

I Know I Am Ugly, but Please Listen to My Story First: An Examination of How Storytelling Can Impact Consumers' Valuation of Unattractive Produce

ABSTRACTIn a world where food insecurity and food waste paradoxically coexist, the rejection of aesthetically imperfect yet edible produce significantly contributes to food waste. This study examines the application of compelling storytelling to alter consumer perceptions and behaviors toward unattractive produce, a perspective largely overlooked in sustainability research. We address this gap by exploring how storytelling can mitigate cognitive biases against such produce, thereby enhancing consumer acceptance through improved perceived taste. In Study 1, we examine the effect of unattractive produce on produce valuation and the mediation of perceived taste. In Study 2, we investigate the moderating role of storytelling in enhancing consumers' perceived taste of unattractive food. Through two experimental studies, we confirm that combining storytelling with marketing tactics, such as coupons, significantly increases consumers' consumption of unattractive produce. We recommend retailers utilize storytelling in marketing unattractive produce to optimize marketing effectiveness and promote sustainable food consumption. Our findings advance storytelling, visual marketing, and unattractive produce literature and offer practical insights for reducing food waste, contributing to sustainability efforts and social welfare. By employing a storytelling strategy, we support social good by encouraging the consumption of “ugly” produce.

Motivated leadership and mutual learning: a case study of promoting sustainable food consumption in an early childhood education centre in Aotearoa New Zealand

ABSTRACT Food system transformation is urgently needed; although dominant food and sustainability discourses tend to focus on powerful stakeholders like governments and industries. We sought to understand how localised; community-based initiatives promote food system change; and how this is experienced by the people they are meant to involve or benefit. We conducted a reflexive qualitative case study with a community-oriented early childhood centre in Aotearoa New Zealand that developed an increasingly sustainable programme. This included providing plant-based food; a garden-to-table and nature-oriented pedagogical focus; and well-embedded low waste practices. We engaged with the community of school leaders; staff; and whānau to explore their processes; their experiences of changes made; and their challenges. Our case study methodology involved semi-structured interviews; group discussions; document analysis; and a reflexive thematic analysis. We identified two main themes; including (1) the importance of leadership for initiating and sustaining change; (2) experiences of changes were linked to relationships and shared learning. These findings contribute to understanding the complexities involved in shifting to sustainable food practices at a local; community-focused level; these might benefit other communities or the stakeholders working to better support them.

An Assessment of Promoting Culinary Tourism in Ghana

Purpose: Ghana's tourism and hospitality industry has been extensively researched over the past five decades, primarily focusing on culture and heritage tourism, nature and economic tourism, marketing, and service quality. The aim is to assess the potential of culinary tourism as a powerful tool for creating sustainable livelihood empowerment channels, offering a beacon of hope for the future. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study was conducted with a rigorous qualitative research design and desk review approach, ensuring a comprehensive topic exploration. Published data and literature on the food tourism prospects of eight regions in Ghana were analysed. The gathered data was then subjected to content analysis, a common technique in qualitative research. Research Limitation: The findings derived from the desk review may not be generalisable to other contexts, populations, or geographic areas due to the reliance on specific literature that may not capture all perspectives. This acknowledgement ensures that the audience is fully informed about the scope of the study. Findings: The study exposes the stark reality that the culinary tourism market in Ghana, despite its significant potential, remains underdeveloped. This underscores the crucial need for strategic interventions and the active participation of all stakeholders in the industry's development. Practical Implication: From a practical point of view, the Ghana Tourism Authority must show greater interest in developing the sector by organising regional and national food festivals annually. This effort must be publicised internationally to attract tourists interested in exploring Ghana's culinary diversity. Social Implication: Culinary tourism promotes sustainable food production and consumption practices by emphasising local, seasonal, and environmentally friendly ingredients. This reduces tourism's carbon footprint and supports responsible consumption patterns. Originality/Value: This study has revealed a significant research gap with practical implications. Thus, narratives on the potential of culinary tourism across eight regions in Ghana have known to have been provided practical actions towards enhancing culinary tourism in Ghana.

The impact of information acquisition ability on consumers' trust in eco-labels in China: insight of food sustainability

IntroductionThe lack of trust in eco-labels is a significant reason for the slow growth in demand for sustainable food, and reducing the information gap between relevant parties is a crucial means to improve consumer trust in eco-labels.MethodsIn order to investigate the influence and driving pathways of consumers' information acquisition abilities on their trust in eco-labels, a total of 1,072 urban and rural consumers in Inner Mongolia, China were surveyed in this study, with an analysis conducted using the structural equation model.ResultsIt was found that information acquisition ability, institutional trust, and label knowledge have significant direct impacts on eco-label trust, with impact effects of 0.270, 0.351, and 0.357, respectively. Additionally, information acquisition ability has indirect effect of 0.085 and 0.127 on label trust through institutional trust and label knowledge. Furthermore, information discernment awareness has a significant negative moderating effect between information acquisition ability and label trust.DiscussionTherefore, when publicizing the certification system and label knowledge, cultivating consumers' information acquisition ability effectively enhances eco-label trust. Moreover, strengthening media supervision to ensure the authenticity and objectivity of information transmission is an important measure to protect trust in eco-labels. This study enriches relevant research in the field of food sustainability and provides valuable recommendations to promote sustainable food consumption.

An Empirical Study to Investigate the Impact of Social Media Marketing on Sustainable Food Consumption with The Mediating Effect of Customer Satisfaction in An Emerging Economy

The purpose of this research is to examine the effect of social media marketing on sustainable food consumption in the food industry of Pakistan with an emphasis on the moderating effect of customer satisfaction. The results of this study also show that social media marketing increases customer satisfaction which increase the levels of sustainable consumption. A cross-sectional study in which 300 participants were included responded to the questionnaire and the data was analyzed by SPSS and Smart PLS 3. 0 for mediation testing. Findings supportive of SM marketing show that is not only directly linked to sustainability but also indirectly through the enhancement of customer satisfaction. These findings provide significant implications for the food industry businesses to understand the role of social media strategies in enhancing customer loyalty and sustain the business in the long run.

Food diversity and accessibility enabled urban environments for sustainable food consumption: a case study of Brisbane, Australia

Food overconsumption is being addressed increasingly in the policy agendas of many advanced economies to achieve sustainable consumption. Yet, few studies define and research sustainable food consumption, particularly in understanding socioeconomic and environmental challenges and opportunities in urban environments. This paper evaluates 500 online surveys conducted in Brisbane, Australia, to explore public perceptions of food consumption and the underlying challenges and opportunities. A key finding is the co-existence of over- and underconsumption prevailing over the traditional focus on unhealthy food overconsumption. The challenges of affordability, access to healthy foods, limited retail options, and increasing carbon urban footprints complicate food consumption as a demand issue more conditional to the socio-spatial characteristics of urban environments. Opportunities for sustainable food consumption also arise in high health awareness and willingness to change dietary habits if facilitated by improved urban food provisioning. We argue that food diversity and accessibility-conducive urban environments can help transform food consumption by enabling enhanced access to affordable and nutritious foods, diversified food retail options and variety, and reduced food waste and loss-associated carbon emissions. To do so means improved global equity in food consumption and carbon footprint can optimistically reduce global food demand by 9% and generate better environmental outcomes, positively contributing to the UN’s Responsible Consumption (SDG12) and Climate Action (SDG 13) for 2030.

Influence of moral reasoning and environmental concern on sustainable food consumption behaviors: A gender comparison among university students

Currently, South American countries face social and environmental challenges that can be addressed through the transformation of food purchasing and preparation patterns. This study aims to enhance comprehension regarding personal factors influencing sustainable food consumption, by examining the impact of moral reasoning and environmental concern on this behavior. The responses of 233 Chilean university students to an online self-report survey were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling. The results have shown that moral reasoning and environmental concern positively impact sustainable food consumption behaviors, such as opting for food with minimal packaging, conserving energy during cooking, and repurposing food waste. Additionally, significant gender differences in these effects were observed. These novel findings provide further evidence supporting the necessity of bolstering moral education and environmental consciousness to foster the adoption of sustainable food consumption practices among university students in developing South American nations. Furthermore, the results underscore the importance of considering gender distinctions in education, particularly in light of entrenched family and societal roles.

Pesticide Reduction through Organic Farming for Promoting Public Health Management and Food Security

There is a growing global interest in sustainable food consumption to ensure food security. One significant factor driving this demand is the belief that consuming organic food affects Public Health (PH). This research examines the historical context of sustainable agriculture. This article specifically examines the impact of sustainable agriculture on health-related substances, pesticide residues, and contaminants in crops. It also explores the connections between organic food and health indicators. In Organic Farming (OF), the use of pesticides is often restricted or non-existent, which is different from Traditional Farming (TF) methods that heavily depend on pesticides to preserve crops. The notable disparities in pesticide usage between the two agricultural systems profoundly affect the comparative nutritional exposure, hazards, and ecological impacts associated with pesticides. Pesticide Usage Monitoring (PUM) information has been used to compare pesticide usage across organically certified and adjacent traditional farms for tomato crops. This work suggested methods for PR by promoting the widespread use of organic agricultural techniques. Additionally, emphasis on many alternatives available within organic food supply chains to further minimize the usage of pesticides, contact, and adverse effects on workers has been proposed to provide food security.

Behavioral Intention to Purchase Sustainable Food: Generation Z’s Perspective

Sustainable food consumption is critical for addressing global environmental challenges and promoting health and ethical practices. Understanding what drives sustainable food choices among younger generations, particularly Generation Z, is essential for developing effective strategies to encourage sustainable consumption patterns. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior as the theoretical framework, this study aims to explore how the variables of the theory (personal attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control), along with consumer knowledge, trust, and health concerns, affect Generation Z’s intentions to buy sustainable food. The research was carried out in Poland via the online interview method (CAWI), with 438 users ranging between the ages 18 and 27. The results show that attitudes and knowledge are significant predictors of sustainable food consumption among Generation Z, while subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, health consciousness, and trust do not significantly affect purchase intentions. This research underscores the importance of educational campaigns and marketing strategies that enhance consumer knowledge and shape positive attitudes towards sustainable food. These insights offer valuable implications for policymakers, marketers, and educators aiming to encourage sustainable practices. Understanding the drivers of Generation Z’s sustainable food consumption behaviors can provide valuable insights for developing effective strategies to promote sustainable consumption patterns. This study adds to the body of knowledge on sustainable food consumption by highlighting the specific factors that drive Generation Z’s purchasing intentions.

Factors Influencing Consumption of Animal-Based Dairy and Plant-Based Milk Alternatives in Australia

In the transition to more environmentally sustainable food systems, the production and consumption of resource-intensive animal-based dairy foods (ABD) remains a talking point. Given the power of consumer choice in transforming food systems, understanding consumer priorities surrounding ABD consumption and their plant-based counterparts is fundamental. Using data from 3271 unique survey respondents, the objectives of this study were to examine the consumption frequencies of ABD and plant-based milk (PBM) in Australia over time (2019–2022) and determine the psychosocial and sociodemographic factors associated with distinct consumer segments. Multivariate analysis identified sociodemographic and food choice factors associated with three consumer segments: ‘exclusive PBM consumers’, ‘exclusive ABD consumers’, and ‘mixed consumers’ (consumers of both product types). Despite the growing availability of plant-based milk alternatives, exclusive PBM consumption remains relatively uncommon compared to mixed plant and animal dairy consumption. ‘Exclusive ABD consumers’ had a higher probability of being older and less likely to prioritise health and nutrition than ‘mixed consumers’. ‘Exclusive PBM consumers’ were more likely to prioritise food tolerance and restrictions and less likely to prioritise product taste than ‘exclusive ABD consumers’. We report sociodemographic and motivational factors influencing animal-based dairy and plant-based milk choices. The outcomes are of interest to sustainable food systems development stakeholders, with potential applications in the public health and commercial food promotion sectors.

Food choice, activity level, and carbon footprint: exploring potential for sustainable food consumption practices in young adults.

This study aims to explore climate consciousness in relation to food consumption in young adults, examining its relationship with physical activity level and gender. A mixed-method approach is utilized, integrating seven-day food records and semi-structured interviews, employing social practice theory in our analytical framework. Our cohort of 47 participants (25 women, 22 men) displays varied diets, from omnivores to vegans. Moderately-active women show the lowest carbon footprint, favoring climate-conscious choices related to lower energy needs and plant-based preferences. Highly-active individuals consume more energy, resulting in a higher carbon footprint. Gender differences are evident, women were inclined to climate-conscious food practices motivated by animal ethics and health concerns. Conversely, men demonstrated a tendency for meat consumption. Participants share an understanding of carbon footprint, reflecting a solid awareness of food-related climate impact but differ in priorities; performance for highly-active, and economy for moderately-active. This highlights a mix of commonalities and distinctions, informing flexible, sustainable food practices. Higher activity levels are linked to greater energy needs and a higher carbon footprint. Moderately-active women show the most climate-conscious food choices, leading to the lowest carbon footprint. Our findings indicate that highly-active individuals and men have significant potential to improve climate-adapted food consumption.

Media literacy and its role in promoting sustainable food consumption practices

Household food consumption is a major driver of environmental impacts globally. Promoting sustainable consumption practices is crucial for addressing the challenges of resource depletion, food waste, and climate change. This study investigates the role of media literacy in fostering sustainable consumption awareness and behavior. A total of 432 Iranian consumers participated in the study by completing an online structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), revealing that the different aspects of media literacy, including usage, accessibility, content generation, and critical understanding, accounted for 93% of the variance in sustainable consumption awareness. Additionally, these factors explained 51% of the variance in sustainable consumption intention. The combined influences of sustainable consumption awareness and intention accounted for 87% of the variance in sustainable consumption behavior. To promote sustainable consumption, it is recommended to establish dedicated networks and channels that focus on delivering sustainable and healthy consumption content. Furthermore, organizing programs featuring environmental experts and interactive platforms, such as question-and-answer panels, can enhance critical understanding among media-literate audiences and contribute to the adoption of more sustainable consumption practices.

The food production–consumption chain: Fighting food insecurity, loss, and waste with technology

The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 seeks to achieve sustainable food production and consumption, including reduced food loss and waste; SDG 2 proposes the goal of zero hunger. In pursuit of these goals, technology arguably has a central role, at every level of the food value chain. To establish this role, the authors identify and examine current technologies aimed at increasing food production and suitably redistributing unused food, as tactics to combat food loss and waste, with the shared end goal of reducing food insecurity. A proposed 2 × 2 typology illustrates how existing technologies can influence food production, distribution, and consumption, as well as influence the stakeholders in the food production–consumption chain. These insights also inform a research and development agenda pertaining to the need for technology applications that can increase food production and/or reduce food waste effectively enough to achieve the goal of zero hunger.

Towards Sustainable Consumption: Quantitative Insights into Consumer Behaviour on Circular Food Products

Abstract The concept of Circular Food Products, focusing on sustainability and waste minimization throughout the production and consumption cycle, has garnered significant attention recently. This research aims to provide empirical insights into factors influencing consumer behaviour regarding sustainability in the food industry. Using quantitative analysis techniques such as the questionnaire to measure attitudes, preferences and behaviours among consumers, and employing structural modeling for the collected data, the study yields important findings that advance knowledge in sustainable food consumption. These findings promote environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices within the food industry and among consumers. One key finding is the low level of consumer awareness about circular food products and their benefits. Perceptions varied, with some viewing these products as innovative and eco-friendly, while others considered them inferior to conventional products. This suggests the need for effective marketing campaigns to shape consumer awareness and perception of circular food products. Additionally, the research highlighted varying levels of awareness regarding the environmental impact of food production and consumption, with some consumers demonstrating strong concern for sustainability.These insights underscore the importance of targeted marketing and education to enhance consumer understanding and acceptance of circular food products, ultimately supporting the shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns.