Assessing consumer perceptions of sustainable packaging solutions

Abstract

Consumer concerns about food and plastic packaging waste have led government and industry to seek alternatives prioritizing the environment while keeping safety, quality, shelf-life, and price. These consumer concerns were examined with a focus on fabrication technologies, current and proposed applications, and consumer acceptance of edible coatings, biodegradable packaging, and nanomaterials. A survey (N = 441) analyzed responses by subpopulations (generation, location, education level, and food-related careers). Consumers prioritize quality (95%), price (83%), and nutritional value (74%), but willingness to consume and pay extra for them varied by generation and location. Younger consumers showed openness to new technologies, indicating an attractive potential niche market for edible coatings. Positive comments highlighted environmental, health, and shelf-life benefits, while concerns include aversion towards new technologies and health risks. Biodegradable packaging is widely accepted, presenting business opportunities to meet sustainable demands, though cost and quality worries remain. Addressing these concerns is crucial for broader adoption.

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