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Engel L, Vilhelmsen K, Richter I, Moritz J, Ryynänen T, Young JF, Burton RJF, Kidmose U, Klöckner CA. Psychological factors influencing consumer intentions to consume cultured meat, fish and dairy. Appetite 2024; 200:107501. [PMID: 38763298 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the structure of factors that influence consumer intentions to both try and to consume cultured proteins, and their intentions to substitute vegan, vegetarian and omnivore diets with these alternative protein sources. Comprehensive survey data (N = 3862) was collected from three Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, and Norway) and analysed using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling. Theoretically, this article draws from behavioural models of environmental psychology, identity theory, and attitude theory. Results indicate that beliefs about the necessity of an industry producing cultured proteins and impacts of cultured proteins on the global economy are significant predictors of consumer intentions. Moreover, participants who exhibited high levels of general and food innovativeness were more likely to express positive intentions to consume cultured proteins. Social norms influenced consumer intentions: Individuals surrounded by positive attitudes and intentions toward cultured proteins within their social networks were more inclined to want to consume these products. The predictor variables in the final model accounted for between 39% and 66% of the variance in the different cultured proteins related intentions. Understanding consumer intentions better can inform targeted communication strategies aimed at promoting the advantages of cultured proteins and facilitating its adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Engel
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | - K Vilhelmsen
- Department of Psychology, Faculty for Social and Educational Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - I Richter
- Department of Psychology, Faculty for Social and Educational Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - J Moritz
- Ruralia Institute, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki, Mikkeli, Finland
| | - T Ryynänen
- Ruralia Institute, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki, Mikkeli, Finland
| | - J F Young
- Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - R J F Burton
- Ruralis: Institute for Rural and Regional Research, Trondheim, Norway
| | - U Kidmose
- Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - C A Klöckner
- Department of Psychology, Faculty for Social and Educational Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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2
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Laureati M, De Boni A, Saba A, Lamy E, Minervini F, Delgado AM, Sinesio F. Determinants of Consumers' Acceptance and Adoption of Novel Food in View of More Resilient and Sustainable Food Systems in the EU: A Systematic Literature Review. Foods 2024; 13:1534. [PMID: 38790835 PMCID: PMC11120339 DOI: 10.3390/foods13101534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This review article aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the main determinants of consumers' acceptance of novel foods (new foods and ingredients) in the EU with emphasis on product's intrinsic properties (sensory characteristics) and individual factors (socio-demographics, perceptive, psychological) by adopting a systematic approach following the PRISMA methodology. Case studies on terrestrial (i.e., insects, cultured meat and other animal origin products, plant-based food including mushrooms, plant-based analogues, pulses, and cereals) and aquatic systems (i.e., algae and jellyfish) are included focusing on age-related and cross-national differences in consumer acceptance of novel foods and ingredients. General trends have emerged that are common to all the novel foods analysed, regardless of their aquatic or terrestrial origin. Aspects such as food neophobia, unfamiliarity, and poor knowledge of the product are important barriers to the consumption of novel foods, while healthiness and environmental sustainability perception are drivers of acceptance. Sensory properties are challenging for more familiar ingredients such as plant-based food (e.g., novel food made by pulses, mushrooms, cereals and pseudocereals). Results are discussed in terms of feasibility of introducing these products in the EU food systems highlighting strategies that can encourage the use of new ingredients or novel foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Laureati
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa De Boni
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences (DISSPA), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70126 Bari, Italy; (A.D.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Anna Saba
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Food and Nutrition (CREA-AN), Via Ardeatina, 546, 00178 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Elsa Lamy
- Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture Environment and Development & CHANGE—Global Change and Sustainability Institute, University of Evora, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal; (E.L.); (A.M.D.)
| | - Fabio Minervini
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences (DISSPA), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70126 Bari, Italy; (A.D.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Amélia M. Delgado
- Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture Environment and Development & CHANGE—Global Change and Sustainability Institute, University of Evora, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal; (E.L.); (A.M.D.)
| | - Fiorella Sinesio
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Food and Nutrition (CREA-AN), Via Ardeatina, 546, 00178 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (F.S.)
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3
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Monaco A, Kotz J, Al Masri M, Allmeta A, Purnhagen KP, König LM. Consumers' perception of novel foods and the impact of heuristics and biases: A systematic review. Appetite 2024; 196:107285. [PMID: 38423301 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
According to the definition adopted in the European Union, novel foods are foods that were not consumed to a significant degree within the Union before May 15, 1997. This includes cultivated meat and insects. Novel foods are meant to play a critical role in the transition towards sustainable food systems. However, their success depends on whether and to what extent they will be incorporated into the diets at the population level. This review investigates consumers' perception of novel food products by narratively synthesising results on the influence of heuristics and biases triggered by emotions, personality traits, and socio-cultural factors. Empirical studies conducted in Western countries and published in English after 1997 were eligible, which led to 182 studies being included. Notably, most included studies focused on insects and cultivated meat. Disgust and fear are shown to be the main emotions driving rejection of novel foods, together with food neophobia and specific cultural norms common across countries included in the scope of the review. Familiarity with novel foods and curiosity both led to higher acceptance. Despite being investigated directly in a minority of studies, heuristics and related biases mostly fell under the "affect," the "natural-is-better," and the "trust" heuristics. The review also discusses to what extent consumers' perception reflects in the regulatory framework applicable to novel foods in the European Union, how it influences the regulation of insects and cultivated meat and which lessons can be drawn for the future of the regulatory framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Monaco
- Chair of Food Law, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany.
| | - Johannes Kotz
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany; Junior Professorship of Public Health Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
| | - Mirna Al Masri
- Junior Professorship of Public Health Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
| | - Anila Allmeta
- Junior Professorship of Public Health Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
| | - Kai P Purnhagen
- Chair of Food Law, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
| | - Laura M König
- Junior Professorship of Public Health Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany; Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1/504, 1010 Vienna, Austria
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4
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Pinney J, Costa-Font M. A Model for Consumer Acceptance of Insect-Based Dog Foods among Adult UK Dog Owners. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1021. [PMID: 38612260 PMCID: PMC11010811 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of alternative proteins is becoming more common in pet feed, and insect-based dog foods (IBDFs) are becoming more widely available. However, little research has been conducted to date in respect of the drivers for consumers' acceptance of IBDF. This study aimed to investigate the acceptance of IBDF among adult UK dog owners and the factors influencing the decision to try and buy such products. A theoretical model was developed following a review of the existing literature. An online survey of 280 participants was carried out and the results were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the theoretical model. The following constructs all had a significant impact on attitudes towards IBDF and/or intentions to try and buy IBDF: food preferences for animal welfare, health and environment; attitudes towards uses of animals; beliefs about insect sentience; disgust; perceptions of benefits and risks; and social norms. Social norms had the strongest influence of any single construct. Consumer acceptance of IBDF is multi-faceted including social, cultural and ethical components, and it is likely that the better availability of information and opportunities for consumers to familiarise themselves with IBDF would help to drive consumer acceptance. In order to allow dog owners to make informed decisions in line with their ethical preferences, further research is needed to establish the overall health and welfare implications of IBDF on the animals involved in production, as well as the companion animals, who are the ultimate consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Pinney
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Montserrat Costa-Font
- Rural Economy, Environment & Society Research Group, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), King’s Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK;
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5
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Fantechi T, Califano G, Caracciolo F, Contini C. Puppy power: How neophobia, attitude towards sustainability, and animal empathy affect the demand for insect-based pet food. Food Res Int 2024; 177:113879. [PMID: 38225138 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.113879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Despite growing commercial interest in novel foods, there are few studies that analyse consumer willingness to purchase them as pet food. This study aimed to test whether consumers are willing to accept the use of foods with insect-based ingredients, which are found to be poorly accepted for human consumption, to feed their pets. In our case study, we analysed the willingness of 400 Italian dog and/or cat caregivers to pay for pet foods containing insect proteins, as measured by the Multiple Price List methodology. We also explored the role of food neophobia, attention to environmental sustainability, and empathy toward one's pet. The results of the study pointed out that the usual determinants of acceptance in the consumption of novel foods, such as food neophobia and attention to environmental sustainability, play an important role even when the purchase is for the household pet, and that empathy as an expression of the pet caregiver's personal relationship with their pet becomes an additional factor. Insect-based pet foods proved to be attractive for purchase only when consumers are well informed about the product's properties in terms of sustainability and healthiness for their pets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Fantechi
- University of Florence, Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), Italy.
| | | | | | - Caterina Contini
- University of Florence, Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), Italy.
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6
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De Devitiis B, Bimbo F, Viscecchia R, Nardone G, Seccia A, Monacis L, Albenzio M, Santillo A. Consumer acceptance for sheep milk-based yogurt-Evidence from a large sample of Italian consumers. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:8469-8478. [PMID: 37678764 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Testing consumer acceptance for a new product, such as the sheep milk-based yogurt, provides a measure of its market success, thus it informs producers on the effectiveness of their decision to transform sheep milk into yogurt to increase their revenues. This work explores to what extent consumers accept sheep milk-based yogurt and tests the role of personal-related factors and product-related features on shaping its acceptance. The study collects data from a representative sample of Italian yogurt consumers, and data are then analyzed via a logistic regression. Results show that male, highly educated, and high-income consumers are more likely than others to accept sheep milk-based yogurt. Findings suggest that consumers' food neophobia and variety seeking traits play a pivotal role in affecting consumer acceptance. Lastly, interest in nutritional and health-related yogurt features increases the probability of accepting sheep milk-based yogurt. Thus, sheep milk-based yogurt should be targeted at high-end male consumers and those interested in nutritional and health-related aspects of yogurt. Informing consumers about the sheep milk yogurt properties may further increase its acceptance and curb food neophobia, which we found to be one of the main barriers for the product acceptance. Future studies will explore consumer acceptance by using a real product and taste experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- B De Devitiis
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy 71122
| | - F Bimbo
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy 71122.
| | - R Viscecchia
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy 71122
| | - G Nardone
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy 71122
| | - A Seccia
- Department of Humanities, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy 71122
| | - L Monacis
- Department of Humanities, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy 71122
| | - M Albenzio
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy 71122
| | - A Santillo
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy 71122
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7
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Siddiqui SA, Tettey E, Yunusa BM, Ngah N, Debrah SK, Yang X, Fernando I, Povetkin SN, Shah MA. Legal situation and consumer acceptance of insects being eaten as human food in different nations across the world-A comprehensive review. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2023; 22:4786-4830. [PMID: 37823805 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Insect consumption is a traditional practice in many countries. Currently, the urgent need for ensuring food sustainability and the high pressure from degrading environment are urging food scientists to rethink the possibility of introducing edible insects as a promising food type. However, due to the lack of the standardized legislative rules and the adequate scientific data that demonstrate the safety of edible insects, many countries still consider it a grey area to introduce edible insects into food supply chains. In this review, we comprehensively reviewed the legal situation, consumer willingness, acceptance, and the knowledge on edible insect harvesting, processing as well as their safety concerns. We found that, despite the great advantage of introducing edible insects in food supply chains, the legal situation and consumer acceptance for edible insects are still unsatisfactory and vary considerably in different countries, which mostly depend on geographical locations and cultural backgrounds involving psychological, social, religious, and anthropological factors. Besides, the safety concern of edible insect consumption is still a major issue hurdling the promotion of edible insects, which is particularly concerning for countries with no practice in consuming insects. Fortunately, the situation is improving. So far, some commercial insect products like energy bars, burgers, and snack foods have emerged in the market. Furthermore, the European Union has also recently issued a specific item for regulating new foods, which is believed to establish an authorized procedure to promote insect-based foods and should be an important step for marketizing edible insects in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- Technical University of Munich, Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Straubing, Germany
- German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), D-Quakenbrück, Germany
| | - Elizabeth Tettey
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research - Oil Palm Research Institute, Sekondi, Takoradi W/R, Ghana
| | | | - Norhayati Ngah
- Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Shadrack Kwaku Debrah
- Department of Horticulture and Crop Production, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ito Fernando
- Department of Plant Pest and Diseases, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, East Java, Indonesia
| | | | - Mohd Asif Shah
- Department of Economics, Kabridahar University, Kabridahar, Somali, Ethiopia
- School of Business, Woxsen University, Hyderabad, India
- Division of Research and Development, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
- Research Fellow, INTI International University, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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8
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Ketelings L, Havermans RC, Kremers SP, de Boer A. How Different Dimensions Shape the Definition of Meat Alternative Products: A Scoping Review of Evidence between 2000 and 2021. Curr Dev Nutr 2023; 7:101960. [PMID: 37408979 PMCID: PMC10319199 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.101960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Consumer awareness of meat-associated health and environmental risks is increasing and motivates a shift toward consuming meat alternatives. This is also reflected in efforts invested in studying meat alternatives from the perspective of nutritional, environmental, and consumer sciences. Despite shared research interest, these studies cannot be readily compared and interpreted because there is no clear consensus on what meat alternatives are. Scholarly debates on acceptance, nutritional value, and environmental advantages of meat alternatives would benefit from a clear definition of meat alternatives. With the goal of defining meat alternatives, relevant scientific literature in the past 10 years was systematically searched and screened guided by the scoping review Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension. The initial search resulted in >100,000 hits, which was reduced to 2465 papers. Next, titles and abstracts were scrutinized using Rayyan.ai, resulting in 193 articles considered for the present review. Article screening and data extraction was performed using ATLAS.ti software. Three major themes were identified to define meat alternative products including: 1) producing and sourcing of ingredients; 2) product characteristics (that is, sensory characteristics, nutritional value, and health profile, social and environmental sustainability profile); and 3) consumer characteristics concerning the marketing and consumption context. Meat alternatives are multifaceted, that is, certain products can be considered as meat alternatives in some context, but not in another context. For any product, it is impossible to unequivocally state that it is a meat alternative. There is a lack of consensus from the diverse literature on what constitutes meat alternatives. However, products may be qualified as meat alternatives according to three key criteria as proposed in a taxonomy: 1) production and sourcing, 2) product characteristics, and/or 3) consumption. We recommend researchers (and other stakeholders) to do so as it allows for better informed future discussions of meat alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linsay Ketelings
- Food Claims Centre Venlo, Campus Venlo, Maastricht University, Venlo, The Netherlands
| | - Remco C. Havermans
- Laboratory of Behavioural Gastronomy, Centre for Healthy Eating and Food Innovation, Maastricht University Campus Venlo, The Netherlands
| | - Stef P.J. Kremers
- NUTRIM, Department of Health Promotion, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Alie de Boer
- Food Claims Centre Venlo, Campus Venlo, Maastricht University, Venlo, The Netherlands
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9
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Realini CE, Driver T, Zhang R, Guenther M, Duff S, Craigie CR, Saunders C, Farouk MM. Survey of New Zealand consumer attitudes to consumption of meat and meat alternatives. Meat Sci 2023; 203:109232. [PMID: 37269711 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2023.109232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
This study examined consumers' consumption, motivations, and concerns regarding meat and meat alternatives by means of an online survey of 1061 New Zealand consumers and review of literature. Outcomes of the survey indicate New Zealanders are overwhelmingly omnivorous (93%), regard taste as the most important factor in their meat purchasing decision followed by price and freshness and consider environmental impact and social responsibility of less importance. Those surveyed indicated willingness to pay 17-24% more for food safety and sustainability related meat attributes. About half of respondents lowered their meat consumption the previous year, mainly red and processed meats, due to lack of affordability and health concerns. Although those surveyed showed high awareness about meat alternatives, their consumption level of the products was very low and more prevalent for female, younger and more educated individuals. Overall, the outlook for meat consumption and meat industry in New Zealand is positive and is likely to remain so for the foreseeable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Realini
- AgResearch Limited, Te Ohu Rangahau Kai, Massey University Campus, Grasslands, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand
| | - T Driver
- Agribusiness and Economics Research Unit, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - R Zhang
- AgResearch Limited, Te Ohu Rangahau Kai, Massey University Campus, Grasslands, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand
| | - M Guenther
- Agribusiness and Economics Research Unit, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - S Duff
- Agribusiness and Economics Research Unit, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - C R Craigie
- AgResearch Limited, 1365 Springs Road, Lincoln, Canterbury 7674, New Zealand
| | - C Saunders
- Agribusiness and Economics Research Unit, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - M M Farouk
- AgResearch Limited, Te Ohu Rangahau Kai, Massey University Campus, Grasslands, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand.
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10
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Alhujaili A, Nocella G, Macready A. Insects as Food: Consumers' Acceptance and Marketing. Foods 2023; 12:foods12040886. [PMID: 36832961 PMCID: PMC9956212 DOI: 10.3390/foods12040886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The growing demand for livestock products is associated with an increase in environmental, economic, and ethical issues. New alternative sources of protein such as edible insects have recently been developed to tackle these issues with fewer drawbacks. However, several challenges are associated with insect-based food, mainly regarding consumer acceptance and commercialization. In this systematic review, we explored these challenges by reviewing 85 papers from 2010 to 2020, which were selected following the PRISMA methodology. Additionally, we applied the SPIDER (Sample, Phenomenon of Interest, Design, Evaluation, and Research type) tool for developing the inclusion criteria. Our analysis adds new knowledge to previous systematic reviews on this topic. It reveals both a comprehensive framework of factors influencing consumers' acceptance of insects as food and aspects of the marketing mix of these products. Disgust, food neophobia, familiarity, visibility of insects, and taste appear to be the most significant factors that can prevent consumers from consuming insects as food. The motivations for acceptance are found to be familiarity and exposure. The results of this review provide insights for policymakers and stakeholders who wish to develop marketing strategies that can increase consumer acceptance of insects as food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Alhujaili
- Department of Applied Economics and Marketing, School of Agriculture Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AR, UK
- Department of Agribusiness and Consumer Science, School of Agricultural and Food Sciences, King Faisal University, Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: or
| | - Giuseppe Nocella
- Department of Applied Economics and Marketing, School of Agriculture Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Anna Macready
- Department of Applied Economics and Marketing, School of Agriculture Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AR, UK
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11
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Bates Z, Mesler RM, Chernishenko J, MacInnis C. Open to Experiencing…Meat Alternatives? The HEXACO Personality Model and Willingness to Try, Buy and Pay Among Omnivores. Food Qual Prefer 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2023.104830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
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12
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Information about health and environmental benefits has minimal impact on consumer responses to commercial plant-based yoghurts. Food Qual Prefer 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2023.104820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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13
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Wang HH. The perspective of meat and meat-alternative consumption in China. Meat Sci 2022; 194:108982. [PMID: 36137353 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2022.108982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study provides an overview of Chinese meat consumption based on literature review. China, having the largest mid-income population, has become the world's largest meat consumer. Its per capita meat consumption has been growing fast over the past decades to 49 kg, half of that of the US. Chinese consumers are aware of the environmental, health and animal welfare concerns, and can accept plant-based and lab cultured meats. Their adoption rate of these meat alternatives is low and their willingness-to-pay for them is also low from 5% below to 5% above conventional meat, compatible to the level in the US and EU countries. China, as an emerging economy, takes it as a serious challenge for food and nutrition security, where meat plays an indispensable role. Malnutrition still exists among children and the low-income population due to low meat intake. Government is playing an active role in boosting its domestic meat production to meet its market demand for more meat.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Holly Wang
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Purdue University, 403 State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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14
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Prospects for Plant-Based Meat: Current Standing, Consumer Perceptions, and Shifting Trends. Foods 2022; 11:foods11233770. [PMID: 36496577 PMCID: PMC9739557 DOI: 10.3390/foods11233770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary habits have a substantial influence on both planet and individual health. High intake of animal products has significant negative effects on the environment and on human health; hence, a reduction in meat consumption is necessary. The transition towards plant-based meat (PBM) is one of the potential solutions for environmental and health issues. To achieve this goal, it is important to understand the dietary habits and demands of consumers. This review was designed with a focus on PBM alternatives, dietary shifts during the COVID-19 pandemic, the drivers of consumers' perceptions in various countries, and the measures that can promote the shift towards PBM. The PBM market is predicted to grow with rising awareness, familiarity, and knowledge in the coming years. Companies must focus on the categories of anticipated benefits to aid consumers in making the switch to a diet higher in PBM alternatives if they want to win over the target market.
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15
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Mayer Labba IC, Steinhausen H, Almius L, Bach Knudsen KE, Sandberg AS. Nutritional Composition and Estimated Iron and Zinc Bioavailability of Meat Substitutes Available on the Swedish Market. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14193903. [PMID: 36235566 PMCID: PMC9571894 DOI: 10.3390/nu14193903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Transition towards plant-based diets is advocated to reduce the climate footprint. Health implications of a diet composed of meat substitutes are currently unknown, and there are knowledge gaps in their nutritional composition and quality. Samples of available meat substitutes were bought in two convenience stores in the city of Gothenburg, Sweden, and were included in the study. Meat substitutes (n = 44) were analyzed for their contents of dietary fiber, fat, iron, zinc, phytate, salt, total phenolics and protein, as well as for their amino acid and fatty acid composition. Bioavailability of iron and zinc was estimated based on the phytate:mineral molar ratio. We found large variations in the nutritional composition of the analyzed meat substitutes. Amino acid profiles seemed to be affected by processing methods. Mycoprotein products were rich in zinc, with a median content of 6.7 mg/100 g, and had very low content of phytate, which suggests mycoprotein as a good source of zinc. Degradability of fungal cell walls might, however, pose as a potential aggravating factor. None of the products could be regarded as a good source of iron due to very high content of phytate (9 to 1151 mg/100 g) and/or low content of iron (0.4 to 4.7 mg/100 g). Phytate:iron molar ratios in products with iron contents >2.1 mg/100 g ranged from 2.5 to 45. Tempeh stood out as a protein source with large potential due to low phytate content (24 mg/100 g) and an iron content (2 mg/100 g) close to the level of a nutrition claim. Producers of the products analyzed in this study appear to use nutritional claims regarding iron that appear not in line with European regulations, since the iron is in a form not available by the body. Meat substitutes analyzed in this study do not contribute to absorbed iron in a relevant manner. Individuals following mainly plant-based diets have to meet their iron needs through other sources. Salt and saturated fat were high in certain products, while other products were more in line with nutritional recommendations. Further investigation of the nutritional and health effects of protein extraction and extrusion is needed. We conclude that nutritional knowledge needs to be implemented in product development of meat substitutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inger-Cecilia Mayer Labba
- Food and Nutrition Science, Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, 412 58 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Correspondence:
| | - Hannah Steinhausen
- Food and Nutrition Science, Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, 412 58 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Linnéa Almius
- Food and Nutrition Science, Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, 412 58 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Ann-Sofie Sandberg
- Food and Nutrition Science, Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, 412 58 Gothenburg, Sweden
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16
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Rombach M, Dean D, Vriesekoop F, de Koning W, Aguiar LK, Anderson M, Mongondry P, Oppong-Gyamfi M, Urbano B, Gómez Luciano CA, Hao W, Eastwick E, Jiang ZV, Boereboom A. Is cultured meat a promising consumer alternative? Exploring key factors determining consumer's willingness to try, buy and pay a premium for cultured meat. Appetite 2022; 179:106307. [PMID: 36089124 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Cultured meat is a relatively new product, enjoying consumer appreciation as a more sustainable meat option. The present study builds on a sample from a diverse set of countries and continents, including China, the US, the UK, France, Spain, Netherlands, New Zealand, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic and uses partial least square structural equation modelling. The proposed conceptual model identified key factors driving and inhibiting consumer willingness to try, buy, and pay a price premium for cultured meat. Results relate to the overall sample of 3091 respondents and two sub-sample comparisons based on gender and meat consumption behaviour. Food neophobia, having food allergies, being a locavore, and having concerns about food technology were found to be inhibiting factors towards willingness to try, buy, and pay a price premium for cultured meat. Food curiosity, meat importance, and a consumer's perception of cultured meat as a realistic alternative to regular meat were found to be important drivers that positively impacted consumers' willingness to try, buy and pay more. Best practice recommendations address issues facing marketing managers in food retail and gastronomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Rombach
- Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce, Lincoln University, PO Box 85084, Lincoln, Canterbury, 7647, New Zealand
| | - David Dean
- Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce, Lincoln University, PO Box 85084, Lincoln, Canterbury, 7647, New Zealand
| | - Frank Vriesekoop
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom; Department of Food Technology, HAS University of Applied Science, Den Bosch, the Netherlands.
| | - Wim de Koning
- Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce, Lincoln University, PO Box 85084, Lincoln, Canterbury, 7647, New Zealand; Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom; Department of Food Technology, HAS University of Applied Science, Den Bosch, the Netherlands
| | - Luis Kluwe Aguiar
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Anderson
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom
| | - Philippe Mongondry
- Department of Food and Bioresource Science & Technology, Groupe ESA, Angers, France
| | - Mark Oppong-Gyamfi
- Department of Food and Bioresource Science & Technology, Groupe ESA, Angers, France
| | - Beatriz Urbano
- Department of Agricultural and Forrest Engineering, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | | | - Wendy Hao
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Eastwick
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom
| | - Zheng Virgil Jiang
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom
| | - Anouk Boereboom
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, United Kingdom
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17
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‘Edible seaweeds’ as an alternative to animal-based proteins in the UK: Identifying product beliefs and consumer traits as drivers of consumer acceptability for macroalgae. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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18
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Dean D, Rombach M, de Koning W, Vriesekoop F, Satyajaya W, Yuliandari P, Anderson M, Mongondry P, Urbano B, Luciano CAG, Hao W, Eastwick E, Achirimbi E, Jiang Z, Boereboom A, Rashid F, Khan I, Alvarez B, Aguiar LK. Understanding Key Factors Influencing Consumers’ Willingness to Try, Buy, and Pay a Price Premium for Mycoproteins. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14163292. [PMID: 36014797 PMCID: PMC9416216 DOI: 10.3390/nu14163292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycoprotein is a fungal-based meat alternative sold in food retail in various countries around the world. The present study builds on a multi-national sample and uses partial least square structural equation modeling. The proposed conceptual model identified key factors that are driving and inhibiting consumer willingness to try, buy, and pay a price premium for mycoprotein. The results relate to the overall sample of 4088 respondents and to two subsample comparisons based on gender and meat consumption behavior. The results show that the biggest drivers of willingness to consume mycoprotein were healthiness, followed by nutritional benefits, safe to eat, and sustainability. Affordability and taste had mixed results. Willingness to consume mycoprotein was inhibited if nutritional importance was placed on meat and, to a lesser extent, if the taste, texture, and smell of meat were deemed important. Best practice recommendations address issues facing marketing managers in the food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Dean
- Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce, Lincoln University, Lincoln P.O. Box 85084, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Meike Rombach
- Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce, Lincoln University, Lincoln P.O. Box 85084, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Wim de Koning
- Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce, Lincoln University, Lincoln P.O. Box 85084, Canterbury, New Zealand
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
- Department of Food Technology, HAS University of Applied Science, P.O. Box 90108, 5200 MA Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Vriesekoop
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
- Department of Food Technology, HAS University of Applied Science, P.O. Box 90108, 5200 MA Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| | - Wisnu Satyajaya
- Department of Agricultural Technology, Lampung University, Bandar Lampung 35145, Indonesia
| | - Puspita Yuliandari
- Department of Agricultural Technology, Lampung University, Bandar Lampung 35145, Indonesia
| | - Martin Anderson
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
| | - Philippe Mongondry
- Department of Food, Technology & Bioresource Science, Groupe ESA, 49007 Angers, France
| | - Beatriz Urbano
- Department of Agricultural and Forrest Engineering, University of Valladolid, 47002 Valladolid, Spain
| | | | - Wendy Hao
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
| | - Emma Eastwick
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
| | - Elma Achirimbi
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
| | - Zheng Jiang
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
| | - Anouk Boereboom
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
- Department of Food Technology, HAS University of Applied Science, P.O. Box 90108, 5200 MA Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Farzana Rashid
- Department of Zoology, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore 54600, Pakistan
| | - Imran Khan
- Department of Human Nutrition, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar 25120, Pakistan
| | - Beatriz Alvarez
- Faculty of Chemistry, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76017, Mexico
| | - Luis Kluwe Aguiar
- Food Land and Agribusiness Management Department, Harper Adams University, Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB, UK
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19
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Pointke M, Ohlau M, Risius A, Pawelzik E. Plant-Based Only: Investigating Consumers' Sensory Perception, Motivation, and Knowledge of Different Plant-Based Alternative Products on the Market. Foods 2022; 11:foods11152339. [PMID: 35954105 PMCID: PMC9368216 DOI: 10.3390/foods11152339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Consumer acceptance and product development of sustainable, healthy, and tasty plant-based alternative products (PBAPs) are closely interlinked. However, information on consumer perceptions of the sensory profile of plant-based meat, cheese, and milk remains scarce. The study aimed to investigate German consumers’ (1) sensory evaluation of PBAPs and (2) consumers´ motivations and knowledge underlying the purchase of such products. This was analyzed in relation to different dietary styles of consumers (omnivore, flexitarian, vegetarian, vegan). A sample of 159 adults completed two tasks: first, a sensory test in which participants tasted and rated three different PBAPs in two consecutive sessions, and second, a questionnaire on consumption behavior, motivation, and knowledge. Results show few differences between nutrition styles in sensory evaluation of individual product attributes. However, overall liking was rated significantly higher by vegans than by omnivores. All dietary styles reported animal welfare and environmental aspects as the main motivations for consuming PBAPs. Most participants acknowledged that meat and cheese alternatives are highly processed foods and not a fad but are not automatically healthier or more environmentally friendly than their animal-based counterparts. Future research should focus on emerging product segments such as plant-based cheeses to better understand how consumers evaluate PBAPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Pointke
- Division of Quality of Plant Products, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Marlene Ohlau
- Marketing for Food and Agricultural Products, Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Goettingen, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Antje Risius
- Marketing for Food and Agricultural Products, Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Goettingen, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Elke Pawelzik
- Division of Quality of Plant Products, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
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20
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Chezan D, Flannery O, Patel A. Factors affecting consumer attitudes to fungi-based protein: A pilot study. Appetite 2022; 175:106043. [PMID: 35487309 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Meat substitutes using alternative proteins can facilitate sustainable diets without compromising animal welfare. The fungal protein, also called mycoprotein is the biomass that results from the fermentation of a filamentous fungus. This paper reports the results of a consumer acceptance study of fungal protein-based meat substitutes using a mixed-method design with a web-based survey and a series of semi-structured interviews amongst European participants. Based on the description provided in the survey, 56% of participants were not directly familiar with fungal proteins but they understood its potential societal benefits. The overall Food Technology Neophobia Score (FTNS) of the sample was moderate (M = 40.0, range = 19-62), with more neophilic participants (52.9%) than neophobic (47.1%). FTN was a significant but weak predictor of Perceived Benefits (PB) and Purchase Intentions (PI). Younger participants perceived fungal proteins more positively, and city-dwellers had higher PI than rural dwellers. Reducetarians were more likely to purchase fungal proteins, compared to unrestricted omnivores. Participants with lower acceptance of fungal proteins' association with mould had significantly lower PI than those who were comfortable with it. In turn, familiarity with fungal protein was positively associated with mould acceptance. The qualitative data suggested that the sensory attributes were the most important factor in the acceptance of meat substitutes. The participants also valued clean label products which were perceived as healthier. Familiarity with other products containing mould seemed to assuage concerns and drive acceptance of fungal protein. The findings suggest that the overall acceptance of fungal protein is still rather low. This may be attributed to the perceived low appeal and tastiness of available fungal protein products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Chezan
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Department of Health Professions, Manchester, M15 6BH, United Kingdom.
| | - Orla Flannery
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Department of Health Professions, Manchester, M15 6BH, United Kingdom.
| | - Ajay Patel
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Department of Health Professions, Manchester, M15 6BH, United Kingdom.
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21
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Gauthier I, Fiestan G. Food neophobia predicts visual ability in the recognition of prepared food, beyond domain-general factors. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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22
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A Narrative Review of Alternative Protein Sources: Highlights on Meat, Fish, Egg and Dairy Analogues. Foods 2022; 11:foods11142053. [PMID: 35885293 PMCID: PMC9316106 DOI: 10.3390/foods11142053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The research and development of alternatives to meat (including fish) and dairy products for human consumption have been increasing in recent years. In the context of these alternatives, there is a diversity of products such as tofu, tempeh, seitan, pulses, algae, seeds, nuts and insects. Apart from these, some products require new technical processes such as needed by milk drink alternatives, mycoprotein and meat, cheese and fish analogues. The aim of these analogues is to mimic the physical and organoleptic properties of animal origin products through fibrous composition and mix of ingredients from vegetable sources using adequate technology, which allow providing similar texture and flavor. Using a narrative approach to review literature, the objectives of this paper are to systematize the arguments supporting the adoption of meat, eggs and dairy alternatives, to identify the diversity of alternatives to these products on the market, including the related technological processes, and to project the challenges that the food industry may face soon. From a total of 302 scientific papers identified in databases, 186 papers were considered. More research papers on products associated with alternatives to milk were found. Nevertheless, there are products that need more research as analogues to meat and dairy products. A general scheme that brings together the main reasons, resources and challenges that the food industry faces in this promising area of alternatives to meat and dairy products is presented.
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23
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Knaapila A. Sensory and Consumer Research Has a Role in Supporting Sustainability of the Food System. Foods 2022; 11:foods11131958. [PMID: 35804773 PMCID: PMC9266232 DOI: 10.3390/foods11131958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
How can sensory and consumer research contribute to the sustainability of a food system [...]
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti Knaapila
- Department of Food and Nutrition, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
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24
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Boereboom A, Sheikh M, Islam T, Achirimbi E, Vriesekoop F. Brits and British Muslims and their perceptions of cultured meat: How big is their willingness to purchase? FOOD FRONTIERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/fft2.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anouk Boereboom
- Department of Food, Land and Agribusiness Management Harper Adams University, Newport United Kingdom
| | - Mustapha Sheikh
- School of Languages, Cultures and Societies University of Leeds Leeds England
| | - Tajul Islam
- School of Languages, Cultures and Societies University of Leeds Leeds England
| | - Elma Achirimbi
- Department of Food, Land and Agribusiness Management Harper Adams University, Newport United Kingdom
| | - Frank Vriesekoop
- Department of Food, Land and Agribusiness Management Harper Adams University, Newport United Kingdom
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25
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Ohlau M, Spiller A, Risius A. Plant-Based Diets Are Not Enough? Understanding the Consumption of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives Along Ultra-processed Foods in Different Dietary Patterns in Germany. Front Nutr 2022; 9:852936. [PMID: 35571958 PMCID: PMC9094491 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.852936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A low-processive plant-based diet is considered valuable for a sustainable diet profile-it is supposed to meet health as well as environmental concerns. However, there is a growing trend toward plant-based meat alternatives, most of which are to be classified as ultra-processed food (UPF). The paper aimed to understand the consumption of different ultra-processed foods to describe their relation to dietary patterns and sustainability. The objective was (1) to depict the status-quo of consumption of plant-based meat alternatives along with other UPF groups (i.e., convenience products, fast foods, snacks, ultra-processed beverages) in a German sample (n = 814) and (2) to investigate the extent to which all examined UPFs are represented in different dietary patterns (vegetarian, flexitarian, regular meat-eaters, high meat-eaters). UPF intake and dietary groups were determined using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Potential factors influencing UPF consumption, such as attitudes toward sustainability and healthy eating practices, were assessed using validated and fitted psychometric scales. Overall, the frequency of UPF consumption varies significantly along the product groups studied. Plant-based meat alternatives were the least consumed food (12.3%), followed by convenience products (57.4%), fast foods (55.9%), ultra-processed beverages (80.1%), and sweet and salty snacks (97.3%). Plant-based meat alternative consumption predominated within a vegetarian diet, while other UPFs, like convenience products, fast foods, sweet and salty snacks, and ultra-processed beverages, were mainly consumed by meat-eaters. Remarkably, flexitarian diets depict low consumption of all types of ultra-processed foods. In order to meet societal sustainability goals, diets and corresponding societal and political actions should emphasize not only plant orientation but also the increase of non- and low-processed foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Ohlau
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Goettingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Achim Spiller
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Goettingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Antje Risius
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Goettingen, Göttingen, Germany
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26
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Motoki K, Park J, Spence C, Velasco C. Contextual acceptance of novel and unfamiliar foods: Insects, cultured meat, plant-based meat alternatives, and 3D printed foods. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2021.104368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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27
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Exploring Consumer Perceptions of the Value Proposition Embedded in Vegan Food Products Using Text Analytics. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14042075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Given the increasing interest in sustainable food consumption and production, this study aims to understand how consumers perceive the value proposition of vegan food. Over 120,000 tweets relating to veganism were extracted from Twitter, which were then analysed using the text analytics tool Leximancer to ascertain the predominant themes of conversation taking place around vegan food. Our results show that, in light of the three main drivers for vegan food choice—ethical, personal health, and environmental—surprisingly, we see a limited number of environmental or sustainability motivated tweets. This is a significant finding, as, while vegan food consumption is reported to be sustainable, this is not a preferred topic of conversation for consumers. Value propositions communicated with respect to personal health attributes (e.g., dairy free, gluten free, and nutrition), and consumption benefits (e.g., tasty, delicious) are more likely to resonate with consumers and motivate increased consumption while concurrently delivering environmental benefits as a positive side-effect. Furthermore, the polarity of the attitudes and conversations taking place between vegans and non-vegans on Twitter underscores that a single value proposition is unlikely to reach both groups simultaneously and that different value propositions are likely to be required to reach these respective groups.
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28
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Meat Analogues in the Perspective of Recent Scientific Research: A Review. Foods 2021; 11:foods11010105. [PMID: 35010232 PMCID: PMC8750317 DOI: 10.3390/foods11010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There are many reasons why consumers and food producers are looking for alternatives to meat and meat products, which includes the following: health, environmental or ethical aspects. This study reviews recent scientific reports on meat analogues. The scope of the review includes the following: formulation and nutritional value; health safety and legal regulations; manufacturing and processing technologies including the latest developments in this area; product availability on the food market; and consumer attitudes towards meat analogues. The analysis of the literature data identified technological challenges, particularly in improving consumer acceptability of meat analogues. Among the risks and limitations associated with the production of meat analogues, the following were identified: contamination from raw materials and the risk of harmful by-products due to intensive processing; legal issues of product nomenclature; and consumer attitudes towards substituting meat with plant-based alternatives. The need for further research in this area, particularly on the nutritional value and food safety of meat analogues, was demonstrated.
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29
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Caradus JR, Goldson SL, Moot DJ, Rowarth JS, Stewart AV. Pastoral agriculture, a significant driver of New Zealand’s economy, based on an introduced grassland ecology and technological advances. J R Soc N Z 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/03036758.2021.2008985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Derrick J. Moot
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Science, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Jacqueline S. Rowarth
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Science, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
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30
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Chen Z, Gurdian C, Sharma C, Prinyawiwatkul W, Torrico DD. Exploring Text Mining for Recent Consumer and Sensory Studies about Alternative Proteins. Foods 2021; 10:foods10112537. [PMID: 34828818 PMCID: PMC8620912 DOI: 10.3390/foods10112537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased meat consumption has been associated with the overuse of fresh water, underground water contamination, land degradation, and negative animal welfare. To mitigate these problems, replacing animal meat products with alternatives such as plant-, insect-, algae-, or yeast-fermented-based proteins, and/or cultured meat, is a viable strategy. Nowadays, there is a vast amount of information regarding consumers’ perceptions of alternative proteins in scientific outlets. Sorting and arranging this information can be time-consuming. To overcome this drawback, text mining and Natural Language Processing (NLP) are introduced as novel approaches to obtain sensory data and rapidly identify current consumer trends. In this study, the application of text mining and NLP in gathering information about alternative proteins was explored by analyzing key descriptive words and sentiments from n = 20 academic papers. From 2018 to 2021, insect- and plant-based proteins were the centers of alternative proteins research as these were the most popular topics in current studies. Pea has become the most common source for plant-based protein applications, while spirulina is the most popular algae-based protein. The emotional profile analysis showed that there was no significant association between emotions and protein categories. Our work showed that applying text mining and NLP could be useful to identify research trends in recent sensory studies. This technique can rapidly obtain and analyze a large amount of data, thus overcoming the time-consuming drawback of traditional sensory techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Chen
- Centre of Excellence—Food for Future Consumers, Department of Wine, Food and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Lincoln 7647, New Zealand; (Z.C.); (C.S.)
| | - Cristhiam Gurdian
- Agricultural Center, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; (C.G.); (W.P.)
| | - Chetan Sharma
- Centre of Excellence—Food for Future Consumers, Department of Wine, Food and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Lincoln 7647, New Zealand; (Z.C.); (C.S.)
| | - Witoon Prinyawiwatkul
- Agricultural Center, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; (C.G.); (W.P.)
| | - Damir D. Torrico
- Centre of Excellence—Food for Future Consumers, Department of Wine, Food and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Lincoln 7647, New Zealand; (Z.C.); (C.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +64-3-423-0641
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Barriers to consumption of plant-based beverages: A comparison of product users and non-users on emotional, conceptual, situational, conative and psychographic variables. Food Res Int 2021; 144:110363. [PMID: 34053556 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2021.110363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Production and consumption practices that reduce the environmental burden of eating and drinking and promote global sustainability are of paramount interest. Against this background, we present a quantitative study of US adults' perceptions of selected non-alcoholic beverages including pairs of regular and plant-based alternatives (iced coffee/iced coffee with almond milk, fruit smoothie/fruit smoothie with soy milk and cow's milk/oat milk). Particular focus was directed to comparing product perceptions of consumers who never consumed these plant-based alternatives with those who did (n = 249 and n = 274), as a means for contextualising the barriers that hinder uptake among non-users. The data were collected via an online survey with a multi-response empirical strategy where the beverages were characterised using a large set of emotional, conceptual, situational, and attitudinal/behavioural variables. Fitting expectations, negative associations were dominant in the group of consumers who never consumed the plant-based beverage variants. However, these associations were product dependent and decreased in the order: oat milk, fruit smoothie with soy milk and iced coffee with almond milk. This pointed to a likely interplay of sensory properties, situational appropriateness and household routines. Food neophobia negatively influenced perceptions of less familiar products, including but not limited to plant-based beverages. While the research was limited to a small number of beverages and plant-based alternatives, it identified the important role that in-depth and product-specific investigations have in helping to uncover and overcome barriers to sustainable eating and drinking solutions.
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Alcorta A, Porta A, Tárrega A, Alvarez MD, Vaquero MP. Foods for Plant-Based Diets: Challenges and Innovations. Foods 2021; 10:293. [PMID: 33535684 PMCID: PMC7912826 DOI: 10.3390/foods10020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant-based diets have become popular as a means of reducing the environmental footprint of the diet and promoting human health and animal welfare. Although the percentages of vegetarians and vegans are low compared to omnivores, their numbers have increased significantly in the last years. The use of non-animal food products other than meat alternatives is also increasing and this tendency constitutes an opportunity for the food industry. In this review, we present that plant-based meat and milk alternatives are consolidated but that there is a niche for egg, seafood alternatives, and new products which may not resemble any traditional animal food. However, not all animal food substitutes are sustainable and some of them are even ultra-processed. In addition, there are concerns on safety and labeling, and consumers demand clear information and regulation. The challenges in this field are connected with food design and technology, sensory science, nutrition, and dietetics. Moreover, adequate selection and combination of foods is important in order to achieve consumer acceptance while preventing nutritional deficiencies in those who choose this type of diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Alcorta
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.A.); (A.P.); (M.D.A.)
| | - Adrià Porta
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.A.); (A.P.); (M.D.A.)
| | - Amparo Tárrega
- Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos (IATA-CSIC), 46980 Paterna, Spain;
| | - María Dolores Alvarez
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.A.); (A.P.); (M.D.A.)
| | - M. Pilar Vaquero
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.A.); (A.P.); (M.D.A.)
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Schwark N, Tiberius V, Fabro M. How Will We Dine? Prospective Shifts in International Haute Cuisine and Innovation beyond Kitchen and Plate. Foods 2020; 9:foods9101369. [PMID: 32993152 PMCID: PMC7599967 DOI: 10.3390/foods9101369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Haute cuisine, the cooking style for fine dining at gourmet restaurants, has changed over the last decades and can be expected to evolve in the upcoming years. To engage in foresight, the purpose of this study is to identify a plausible future trend scenario for the haute cuisine sector within the next five to ten years, based on today’s chefs’ views. To achieve this goal, an international, two-stage Delphi study was conducted. The derived scenario suggests that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic will lead to significant restaurant bankruptcies and will raise creativity and innovation among the remaining ones. It is expected that haute cuisine tourism will grow and that menu prices will differ for customer segments. More haute cuisine restaurants will open in Asia and America. Local food will remain a major trend and will be complemented by insect as well as plant-based proteins and sophisticated nonalcoholic food pairings. Restaurant design and the use of scents will become more relevant. Also, private dining and fine dining at home will become more important. The scenario also includes negative projections. These findings can serve as a research agenda for future research in haute cuisine, including the extension of the innovation lens towards the restaurant and the business model. Practical implications include the necessity for haute cuisine restaurants to innovate to cope with increasing competition in several regions. Customers should be seen as co-creators of the value of haute cuisine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Schwark
- Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, University of Potsdam, 14482 Potsdam, Germany;
| | - Victor Tiberius
- Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, University of Potsdam, 14482 Potsdam, Germany;
- Correspondence:
| | - Manuela Fabro
- Institute of History and Philosophy of Science, Technology, and Literature, Technical University of Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany;
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