Consumer perceptions and concerns about food contaminants.
More consumers are concerned about microbiological hazards than any other area. Pesticide residues generate concern, especially among low income consumers with less formal education. Use of antibiotics and hormones in animal production is considered a serious hazard by fewer consumers. Consumer attitudes are influenced by media coverage. An increasing number of consumers expect food producers and retailers to assume a major role in providing safe food. A majority of consumers express interesting in purchasing irradiated food when specific benefits are described and the percentage increases when irradiation is more fully described. In actual market experiences, irradiated produce and poultry have been well received. Similarly, most consumers are positive toward biotechnology, with greatest support for environmental applications. The scientific community should use the media to reach the public with information identifying risks and protective strategies, including the use of new technology.
Bruhn
C M
CM
Center for Consumer Research, University of California, Davis 95616-8598, USA.
D001709:Biotechnology; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D004522:Educational Status; D005506:Food Contamination; D005511:Food Handling; D005514:Food Irradiation; D005516:Food Microbiology; D005525:Food-Processing Industry; D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers; D008402:Mass Media; D010573:Pesticide Residues; D011634:Public Health; D012923:Social Class
D010573:Pesticide Residues