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Hughes JP, Weick M, Vasiljevic M. Can environmental traffic light warning labels reduce meat meal selection? A randomised experimental study with UK meat consumers. Appetite 2024; 200:107500. [PMID: 38763297 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107500] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
An important area for tackling climate change and health improvement is reducing population meat consumption. Traffic light labelling has successfully been implemented to reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods and sugary drinks. The present research extends this work to meat selection. We tested 1,300 adult UK meat consumers (with quotas for age and gender to approximate a nationally representative sample). Participants were randomised into one of four experimental groups: (1) a red traffic light label with the text 'High Climate Impact' displayed on meat meal options only; (2) a green traffic light label with the text 'Low Climate Impact' displayed on vegetarian and vegan meal options only; (3) red/orange/green (ROG) traffic light labels displayed on relevant meals; and (4) control (no label present). Participants made meal selections within their randomised group across 20 meal trials. A beta-regression was performed to ascertain the change in primary outcome (proportion of meat meals selected across the 20 trials) across the different groups. The red-only label and ROG labels significantly reduced the proportion of meat meals selected compared to the unlabelled control group, by 9.2% and 9.8% respectively. The green-only label did not differ from control. Negatively framed traffic light labels seem to be effective at discouraging meat selection. The labels appeared to be moderately acceptable to meat eaters, who did not think the labels impacted the appeal of the products. These encouraging findings require replication in real-life settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack P Hughes
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, UK.
| | - Mario Weick
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, UK
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2
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Zhang AW, Wharton C, Cloonan S, Boronowsky R, Magesh V, Braverman I, Marquez A, Leidy H, Wang MC, Cleveland DA, Jay J, Stecher C. Changing the default meal option at university events to reduce harmful environmental impacts: Six randomized controlled trials. Appetite 2024; 200:107572. [PMID: 38908405 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107572] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Animal agriculture is a leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful environmental impacts, which underscores the need to shift away from the consumption of animal-based products. One promising nudge intervention is making plant-based meals the default option, so we tested this approach at six different university events across four academic institutions for effecting sustainable dietary change. Event attendees pre-selected their meal on one of two randomly assigned RSVP forms: one with a plant-based default and one with a meal with meat default. The results from our randomized controlled trial showed that participants had a 43-percentage point greater probability of selecting the plant-based meal when it was indicated as the default option. This effect was similar across events and academic institutions, which indicates that this default intervention is generalizable and can be successfully implemented at university events. The combined effect of using plant-based defaults at these six events was an estimated reduction of 104,387 kg of CO2 emissions, 299.9 m2 of land use, 959.0 g of nitrogen use, and 259.5 g of phosphorus use, which represent roughly 45-46.2% reductions in harmful environmental impacts relative to the meals chosen when using a meat default. Given the significance and magnitude of these environmental benefits, our results support the widespread implementation of plant-based defaults for helping universities improve their sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Varun Magesh
- University of California, Santa Barbara, United States
| | | | | | | | - May C Wang
- University of California, Los Angeles, United States
| | | | - Jennifer Jay
- University of California, Los Angeles, United States
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3
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Richter A, Loss J, Kuhn DA, Moosburger R, Mensink GBM. Evaluating the diet in Germany with two indices focusing on healthy eating and planetary healthy eating using nationwide cross-sectional food intake data from DEGS1 (2008-2011). Eur J Nutr 2024:10.1007/s00394-024-03476-x. [PMID: 39147914 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-024-03476-x] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To improve sustainability, adjustments to current diets are necessary. Therefore, limited planetary resources are considered within the healthy reference diet proposed by the EAT-Lancet Commission. The agreement with nationwide food intake was evaluated with two indices which reflect this reference and German food intake recommendations. METHODS A healthy eating index (HEI-MON) reflecting the dietary guidelines of the German nutrition society and a planetary healthy eating index (PHEI-MON) reflecting the healthy reference diet were developed, with scores from 0 to 100. Both indices were applied to data from a nationally representative sample of the German population aged 18-79 years for which data from a 53-item food frequency questionnaire are available. RESULTS Mean scores for the indices were 53 for HEI-MON and 39 for PHEI-MON. A better adherence to either guideline could be found among women, persons of older age as well as persons with higher education level. The sub-scores for HEI-MON showed high agreement with the recommendations for side dishes, fruit/nuts, (processed) meat and cereals, but low agreement with the recommendations for free sugar and vegetables/legumes. PHEI-MON sub-scores were highest for poultry, fruits and potatoes, and lowest for nuts, red meat and legumes. High scores in one index do not necessarily correspond to high scores in the other index. Individuals with more plantbased diets had higher scores in both indices, while high sugar and meat consumption led to lower scores. CONCLUSIONS More plant-based diets are crucial for individual and planetary health. Both indices reflect such diets which consider already health and sustainability aspects. At an individual level, the scores for both indices may differ considerably, but overall there is a huge potential in the population to adapt to a diet more in line with both guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almut Richter
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Julika Loss
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daria-Alina Kuhn
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ramona Moosburger
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gert B M Mensink
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
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Kirbiš A, Korže V, Lubej M. Predictors of Meat Reduction: The Case of Slovenia. Foods 2024; 13:2346. [PMID: 39123537 PMCID: PMC11311667 DOI: 10.3390/foods13152346] [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: 06/22/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Health, environmental, and animal advocacy organisations emphasise reducing or eliminating high meat consumption due to its adverse effects on health, sustainability, climate change, and animal welfare. Increasingly, people are deciding to reduce their meat consumption frequency. Our study aimed to examine predictors of meat reduction among Slovenian consumers, focusing on gender, age, partner and children status, size of residential settlement, socioeconomic status, and political orientation. We conducted a survey using non-probability sampling. We examined demographic, socioeconomic, and political predictors of individuals' self-assessed intent to reduce meat consumption in the month following the survey. Additionally, we analysed respondents' meat reduction during the three years prior. A correlation analysis revealed that higher age and education levels were significantly positively correlated with meat reduction patterns. An ordinal logistic regression analysis indicated that age was the only significant predictor of meat reduction intentions and past behaviour. Our findings suggest that middle-aged and elderly individuals are more likely than younger adults to report meat reduction behaviours. Future public health interventions should tailor approaches to different age groups, and, in particular, target younger individuals. Educational campaigns should highlight the health and environmental benefits of reducing meat and animal product consumption, particularly in primary and secondary schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Kirbiš
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Arts, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
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Raptou E, Tsiami A, Negro G, Ghuriani V, Baweja P, Smaoui S, Varzakas T. Gen Z's Willingness to Adopt Plant-Based Diets: Empirical Evidence from Greece, India, and the UK. Foods 2024; 13:2076. [PMID: 38998582 PMCID: PMC11241807 DOI: 10.3390/foods13132076] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Comprising the largest population cohort on this planet, Gen Z presents a future-oriented consumer segment driven by climate change and food. This study sought to investigate Gen Z's perceptions toward plant-based foods and diets and explore the relationship that attitude components, meal preparation involvement, personal and lifestyle factors, and perceived barriers in adopting a plant-based diet have with willingness to adopt green-eating practices. Using cross-sectional data from university students in Greece, India, and the UK, various tools were employed to determine the factors influencing youths' consumer behavior toward animal-protein substitutes. PCA indicated the underlying dimensions of students' viewpoints on plant-based foods, whereas hierarchical and k-means clustering provided the cluster structure. An ordered probit model was estimated to delineate Gen Z's willingness to adopt plant-based diets and distinguish among mostly unwilling, somewhat willing, and mostly willing youths. Our findings identified two consumer segments, namely proponents and opponents of plant-based foods and diets, with statistically significant differences in the perceived health benefits of plant-based diets, attachment to animal-based proteins, perceived exclusion of animal-based foods, dissatisfaction with plant-based foods' attributes, and demand for ensuring adequate protein intake. The ordered probit model estimates showed that there is a "homogeneity" in the factors influencing youths' intention to adopt plant-based diets, with attitude components, meal preparation indicators, perceived barriers to eating "green", and personal factors, such as self-assessed knowledge of healthy eating and physical activity, being strongly associated with students' willingness to switch to plant-based diets in all three countries. Mapping potential obstacles and enablers in terms of shifting to more green-eating behaviors, our findings could add information to better understand the factors affecting food choice and youths' transition to a more sustainable lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Raptou
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, 68200 Orestiada, Greece
| | - Amalia Tsiami
- London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, University of West London, London W5 5RF, UK
| | - Giulia Negro
- London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, University of West London, London W5 5RF, UK
| | - Veena Ghuriani
- Department of Computer Science, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110021, India
| | - Pooja Baweja
- Department of Botany, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110021, India
| | - Slim Smaoui
- Laboratory of Microbial and Enzymes Biotechnology and Biomolecules (LMEBB), Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax (CBS), University of Sfax-Tunisia, Road of Sidi Mansour Km 6, P.O. Box 1177, Sfax 3018, Tunisia
| | - Theodoros Varzakas
- Department Food Science and Technology, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
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Habumugisha T, Måren IE, Matsiko E, Kaiser M, Dierkes J, Engebretsen IMS. Older adults' perceptions about meat consumption: a qualitative study in Gasabo district, Kigali, Rwanda. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1515. [PMID: 38840236 PMCID: PMC11155052 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19038-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global population is increasingly aging, imposing a substantial burden on social and healthcare systems as aging is associated with gradual muscle wasting and functional decline. Consumption of protein-rich foods, such as livestock-based meat, providing high-quality proteins can prevent muscle wasting and related functional decline in older adults. However, there is a lack of data on the older adults' perceptions about meat consumption, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. OBJECTIVE To explore the perceptions about dietary meat consumption among older adults in Gasabo district, Kigali, Rwanda. METHODS We conducted a descriptive qualitative study, using focus group discussions. A total of eight FGDs, lasting between 55 and 80 min, were conducted with gender-mixed groups, including 31 men and 33 women aged ≥ 55 years old. Eight older adults participated in each FGD session, and all discussions were conducted in the local language (Kinyarwanda) using a pre-designed interview guide. The discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim and translated into English. The transcript was inductively analyzed using thematic analytical process. RESULTS Three themes were identified from the data, predominantly related to motives and barriers of meat consumption. The motives of meat consumption included improved quality and taste of the diet, improving own health, and having a social function. Barriers of meat consumption were perceived to be related to health risks, sustainability concerns (depletion of resources), and religious beliefs. Lastly, it was widely perceived that meat was unavailable and economically inaccessible, thus meat consumption was perceived to be associated with improved wealth. CONCLUSION The findings revealed a low and declining meat consumption among older adults due to poverty. Improving financial capacity or strategic public health work to improve protein consumption in the elderly is necessary to meet nutritional needs and facilitate healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theogene Habumugisha
- Centre for International Health, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, Bergen, 5009, Norway.
| | - Inger E Måren
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Sustainable Area Management (CeSAM), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Eric Matsiko
- Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Matthias Kaiser
- Centre for the Study of Sciences and Humanities, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jutta Dierkes
- Centre for Nutrition, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Mohn Nutrition Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingunn M S Engebretsen
- Centre for International Health, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Årstadveien 21, Bergen, 5009, Norway
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Strässner AM, Wirth W. Shades and shifts in flexitarian and meat-oriented consumer profiles in a German panel study. Appetite 2024; 197:107298. [PMID: 38479470 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107298] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Consumers' growing awareness of the adverse effects of high meat consumption has led to increased attention to flexitarian or meat-reduced diets. However, most flexitarians do not significantly reduce their meat consumption and still eat many meat-based meals. This study aims to classify the large and heterogeneous consumer group of flexitarians into different profiles based on attitudinal, normative, and control beliefs about meat reduction. Being aware that consumer profiles can change over time, this study explores the dynamics of the identified profiles using a two-wave panel survey of 430 German consumers. Latent profile analysis revealed distinct flexitarian and meat-oriented consumer profiles, including three stable profiles and one non-stable profile across both waves. The findings indicate that flexitarian and meat-oriented consumer profiles differ significantly in their belief structure about meat reduction and that consumers can switch back and forth to other profiles over time. Practitioners should be aware of changes in the belief structure of flexitarian and meat-oriented consumer profiles when developing meat reduction interventions. Further research is needed to understand the reasons behind these profile shifts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Maria Strässner
- Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of Management and Law, Institute of Marketing Management, Switzerland.
| | - Werner Wirth
- University of Zurich, Institute of Communication and Media Research, Department of Media Psychology and Media Effects, Switzerland.
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8
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Elliott PS, Devine LD, Gibney ER, O'Sullivan AM. What factors influence sustainable and healthy diet consumption? A review and synthesis of literature within the university setting and beyond. Nutr Res 2024; 126:23-45. [PMID: 38613922 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2024.03.004] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Globally, typical dietary patterns are neither healthy nor sustainable. Recognizing the key role of dietary change in reducing noncommunicable disease risk and addressing environmental degradation, it is crucial to understand how to shift individuals toward a sustainable and healthy diet (SHD). In this literature review, we introduced the concept of a SHD and outlined the dietary behaviors necessary to transition toward SHD consumption; we reviewed the literature on factors that may influence sustainable (and unsustainable) dietary behaviors in adults; and we developed a novel scoring system to rank factors by priority for targeting in future research. Given the significant potential to promote a sustainable and healthy dietary transition on the university campus-where factors that may impact dietary behaviors can be targeted at all levels of influence (i.e., individual, interpersonal, environmental, policy)-we narrowed our focus to this setting throughout. Aided by our novel scoring system, we identified conscious habitual eating, product price, food availability/accessibility, product convenience, self-regulation skills, knowledge of animal ethics/welfare, food promotion, and eating norms as important modifiable factors that may influence university students' dietary behaviors. When scored without consideration for the university population, these factors were also ranked as highest priority, as was modified portion sizes. Our findings offer insight into factors that may warrant attention in future research aimed at promoting SHDs. In particular, the high-priority factors identified from our synthesis of the literature could help guide the development of more personalized dietary behavioral interventions within the university setting and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S Elliott
- Institute of Food and Health, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Lauren D Devine
- Institute of Food and Health, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Eileen R Gibney
- Institute of Food and Health, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Aifric M O'Sullivan
- Institute of Food and Health, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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Jeżewska-Zychowicz M, Sajdakowska M, Gębski J, Kosicka-Gębska M, Gutkowska K. Predictors of Eating Less Meat and More Plant-Based Food in the Polish Sample. Nutrients 2024; 16:1646. [PMID: 38892579 PMCID: PMC11174385 DOI: 10.3390/nu16111646] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to identify predictors of the intention to eat less meat and more plant-based foods, including attitudes towards eating meat, habitual meat eating, subjective norms, and self-identity. A cross-sectional study using CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) was conducted in a group of 1003 Polish adults in 2023. To measure the predictor variables, the following tools were used: Beliefs and Eating Habits Questionnaire (KomPAN), Meat Attachment Questionnaire (MAQ), and scales to measure subjective norms and self-identity. Logistic regression analysis was used to verify associations between independent variables, and the intentions to eat more plant-based food and less meat next year were treated as dependent variables. More respondents were willing to increase their consumption of plant-based foods rather than reduce their meat consumption. The intention to consume less meat and more plant foods was more prevalent among women, older people (only intention to reduce meat consumption), and better-educated people (only intention to increase plant food consumption). Habitual frequency of eating plant foods, negative feelings about meat, and environmentally oriented identities had a stimulating effect on the intention to eat more plant foods and less meat, while experiencing pleasure in eating meat had a limiting effect on the intention to eat more plant foods and less meat. In addition, the habitual frequency of meat consumption and subjective norms reduced the likelihood of eating less meat, while no predictive effect was observed for the intention to eat more plant foods. In conclusion, educational and promotional activities to raise awareness of the link between food consumption and the environment can have a strong impact on eating less meat and more plant-based food, even among those strongly accustomed to meat consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Sajdakowska
- Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS), Nowoursynowska 159 C, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (M.J.-Z.); (J.G.); (M.K.-G.); (K.G.)
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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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Hesselberg J, Pedersen S, Grønhøj A. Meat reduction meets family reality: Negotiating sustainable diets in households with adolescents. Appetite 2024; 195:107213. [PMID: 38242360 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107213] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Limited research exists on how the transition towards more sustainable eating takes place at the meso-level of family decision-making, or how children and adolescents engage in and possibly influence the process towards more sustainable diets in families. In this paper, we study how public recommendations that encourage reducing the consumption of meat for the benefit of both health and climate are interpreted, negotiated, and acted upon in Danish families with adolescents (aged 15-20) residing at home. We use novel methodological stimuli, including vignettes and a visual sorting task, embedded in qualitative, in-depth interviews to elicit data on parents' and adolescents' everyday meat consumption/reduction behaviours. Findings reveal that a desire to uphold harmony and family cohesion serves as simultaneous drivers and barriers to reducing meat consumption. Further, we identify barriers to change in the gendered work hidden in the tasks of planning the integration of more sustainable, green dishes into the meal repertoires. Implications are drawn for social marketers, marketers, and public policymakers, encouraging these to use insights into family food decision-making processes as a lever to facilitate the needed green transition of diets in family households.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Hesselberg
- Department of Management, Business and Social Sciences, Aarhus University, Fuglesangs Allé 4, 8210, Aarhus V, Denmark.
| | - Susanne Pedersen
- Department of Management, Business and Social Sciences, Aarhus University, Fuglesangs Allé 4, 8210, Aarhus V, Denmark.
| | - Alice Grønhøj
- Department of Management, Business and Social Sciences, Aarhus University, Fuglesangs Allé 4, 8210, Aarhus V, Denmark.
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Rickerby A, Green R. Barriers to Adopting a Plant-Based Diet in High-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2024; 16:823. [PMID: 38542734 PMCID: PMC10975979 DOI: 10.3390/nu16060823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Adopting a plant-based diet (PBD) has been shown to reduce the risk of developing certain diseases and is linked to environmental benefits. This review synthesises the evidence on the barriers adults aged 18 to 65 living in high-income countries (HIC) may experience when adopting a PBD. A systematic literature review was conducted using four search databases: Medline, Embase, Global Health, and Web of Science. Barriers were mapped to behaviour change strategies using the COM-B model. Ten studies were included in the final review, including 1740 participants. Five were qualitative, four were cross-sectional, and one was a pre- and-post-intervention study. In total, 40 barriers were identified and synthesised into 11 themes: financial, lack of knowledge, emotional, health, convenience, social, enjoyment of meat, environmental, accessibility, personal ability, and media. Of the 40 barriers, nutritional intake/requirements (categorised into the "health" theme) had the most evidence. This barrier encompassed concerns around being able to meet nutritional needs if an individual were to adopt a PBD. Habits (in the "personal ability" theme), which included established eating habits and habitual behaviours relating to animal-source foods, had the second most evidence alongside the barrier of not knowing what to eat as part of a PBD (in the "lack of knowledge" theme). Education interventions and communication/marketing policies were the behaviour change mechanisms mapped onto these barriers. Future interventions should focus on informing individuals about what to consume as part of a nutritionally balanced PBD and facilitating habitual dietary change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Rickerby
- Department of Population Health, LSHTM Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London W1CE 7HT, UK
| | - Rosemary Green
- Department of Population Health, LSHTM Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London W1CE 7HT, UK
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Siddiqui SA, Bhowmik S, Afreen M, Ucak İ, Ikram A, Gerini F, Mehdizadeh M, Ayivi RD, Castro-Muñoz R. Bodybuilders and high-level meat consumers' behavior towards rabbit, beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb meat: A comparative review. Nutrition 2024; 119:112305. [PMID: 38199031 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2023.112305] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
In bodybuilders' diets, protein plays a crucial role in supporting muscle growth and repairing damaged muscle tissue. These individuals meet their protein needs by combining dietary sources with supplements. Animal-based proteins are often preferred over plant-based proteins because they are believed to better support muscle protein synthesis. This review explores the meat consumption patterns of bodybuilders and high-level meat consumers, focusing on rabbit, beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb. We describe and compare the types of meat bodybuilders commonly consume and provide an overview of protein supplements, including meat-based options, plant-based alternatives, and whey-based products. Our aim is to gain insight into the dietary preferences of bodybuilders and high-level meat consumers, considering their nutritional requirements and the potential effect on the meat industry. We conducted an extensive search across various databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. We found that individual choices vary based on factors such as attitudes, trust, taste, texture, nutritional content, ethical considerations, and cultural influences. Nutritional factors, including protein content, amino acid profiles, and fat levels, significantly influence the preferences of bodybuilders and high-level meat consumers. However, it is crucial to maintain a balance by incorporating other essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to ensure a complete and balanced diet. The findings from this review can inform strategies and product development initiatives tailored to the needs of bodybuilders and discerning meat enthusiasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- Technical University of Munich, Department of Biotechnology and Sustainability, Straubing, Germany; German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), Quakenbrück, Germany
| | - Shuva Bhowmik
- Centre for Bioengineering and Nanomedicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Department of Food Science, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Maliha Afreen
- Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies, Animal Production and Technologies Department, Niğde, Turkey
| | - İlknur Ucak
- Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies, Animal Production and Technologies Department, Niğde, Turkey
| | - Ali Ikram
- University Institute of Food Science and Technology, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Francesca Gerini
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Mohammad Mehdizadeh
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Raphael D Ayivi
- Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA; Department of Nanoscience, Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
| | - Roberto Castro-Muñoz
- Gdansk University of Technology, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department of Sanitary Engineering, 80 - 233, Gdansk, G. Narutowicza St. 11/12, Poland.
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14
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Zhang T, Yu S, Pan Y, Li H, Liu X, Cao J. Properties of texturized protein and performance of different protein sources in the extrusion process: A review. Food Res Int 2023; 174:113588. [PMID: 37986454 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.113588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The need for protein is increasing due to the rapid growth of the global population. However, conventional animal meat production has caused severe environmental, land usage, and other issues. Meat substitutes can provide consumers with a high-quality alternative to protein. Texturized protein (TP) is a critical ingredient in meat substitutes and is mainly obtained through extrusion processing. Therefore, this review first discussed the essential physical properties of TP, including appearance and structure, water-holding capacity (WHC) and oil-holding capacity (OHC), texture, and sensory properties. The performance of plant and novel source proteins in extrusion processing is also summarized. The properties of the desired TP should be considered first before extrusion processing. Under different extrusion parameters, proteins from the same source can exhibit varying properties. Although the novel source proteins can adversely affect TP quality, their high yield and environmental protection are worthy of further study. This paper aims to review the impact of proteins from different sources on the properties of TP during the extrusion process and discuss practical research methods for TP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health (Beijing Technology and Business University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100000, China.
| | - Shengjuan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health (Beijing Technology and Business University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100000, China.
| | - Yihao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health (Beijing Technology and Business University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100000, China.
| | - He Li
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health (Beijing Technology and Business University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100000, China.
| | - Xinqi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health (Beijing Technology and Business University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100000, China; National Soybean Processing Industry Technology Innovation Center, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100000, China.
| | - Jinnuo Cao
- Puluting (Hebei) Protein Biotechnology Research Limited Company, Handan 056000, China.
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15
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Aaslyng MD, Dam AB, Petersen IL, Christoffersen T. Protein content and amino acid composition in the diet of Danish vegans: a cross-sectional study. BMC Nutr 2023; 9:131. [PMID: 37968717 PMCID: PMC10647079 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-023-00793-y] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing proportion of the population are replacing their dietary animal protein with plant protein. A particular example of this trend is the vegan diet, which excludes all food items of animal origin. However, the DIAAS score for individual plant proteins is generally lower than that of animal proteins due to an unbalanced amino acid composition and lower bioavailability. Care must therefore be taken to meet the nutritional recommendations in the daily food intake. METHODS A three-day dietary food record was carried out by 40 Danish vegans in a cross-sectional study. The data were analysed, with particular emphasis on protein requirements and the essential amino acid composition of the diet. RESULTS The protein recommendations were met on all three days by 60% of the participants. In contrast, 18% did not meet the protein recommendations on any of the three days and 7% met the recommendations on only one of the days. Lysine was the most limiting amino acid (only 50% met the recommendations every day) followed by the sulphur-containing amino acids (recommendations met by 67.5%), leucine and valine (recommendations met by 70%). Combining both the amount of protein and the intake of the essential amino acids showed that less than half of the participants met the recommendations on all three days (47.5%) and 35% did not meet the recommendations on any days or on one day only. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our study showed that many of the participants in the present study failed to meet the daily protein intake requirements, both on single days and on all three days. Furthermore, the food intake was found to have an inadequate amino acid composition and was particularly limited by the essential amino acids lysine, the sulphur-containing amino acids, and leucine and valine. This could be ascribed to the fact that only a limited number of protein sources were consumed during a day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margit D Aaslyng
- University College Absalon, Nutrition and Health, Sdr. Stationsvej 30, Slagelse, 4200, Denmark.
| | - Astrid Bøgebjerg Dam
- University College Absalon, Nutrition and Health, Sdr. Stationsvej 30, Slagelse, 4200, Denmark
| | - Iben Lykke Petersen
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 26, Frederiksberg C, 1958, Denmark
| | - Tenna Christoffersen
- University College Absalon, Nutrition and Health, Sdr. Stationsvej 30, Slagelse, 4200, Denmark
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16
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Kenny TA, Woodside JV, Perry IJ, Harrington JM. Consumer attitudes and behaviors toward more sustainable diets: a scoping review. Nutr Rev 2023; 81:1665-1679. [PMID: 37014671 PMCID: PMC10639109 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need to move toward more sustainable diets. Although this will require radical and systemic changes across food systems, altering consumer ideologies and practices is essential to garner support for such actions. In this scoping review, the evidence on consumers' attitudes and behaviors toward more sustainable diets is synthesized and a range of factors, considerations, and proposed strategies are presented that can contribute to building the societal-level support for urgent and systems-level changes. The findings suggest that consumers, insofar as they are interested in sustainability and have the capacity to engage with the concept, primarily approach the concept of sustainable diet from a human health perspective. However, the interconnectedness of human health and well-being with environmental health is poorly understood and under-researched in the context of consumer behaviors and attitudes toward sustainable diets. This highlights the need for (1) sustained efforts from public health professionals to encourage a realignment of the term sustainable diet with its multidimensional meaning by championing an ecological public health approach in all efforts aimed at promoting more sustainable consumption, from awareness raising to policy development; (2) a broader research lens focused on the multidimensional concept of sustainability in the literature exploring consumer attitudes and behaviors; and (3) the development of multidisciplinary, clear, and evidence-based sustainable-eating messages, including holistic sustainable dietary guidance, to address knowledge gaps, minimize conflicting narratives, and build consumer agency. The findings contribute to understanding how support can be generated for the necessary structural and system-level changes required to support behavior change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara A Kenny
- Centre for Health & Diet Research, School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jayne V Woodside
- Centre for Public Health, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Ivan J Perry
- Centre for Health & Diet Research, School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Janas M Harrington
- Centre for Health & Diet Research, School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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17
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Reuzé A, Méjean C, Sirieix L, Baudry J, Kesse-Guyot E, Druesne-Pecollo N, Brunin J, Hercberg S, Touvier M, Péneau S, Allès B. Stages of Change toward Meat Reduction: Associations with Motives and Longitudinal Dietary Data on Animal-Based and Plant-Based Food Intakes in French Adults. J Nutr 2023; 153:3295-3307. [PMID: 37774842 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.09.017] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reducing meat consumption is advocated for healthier and more sustainable diets. However, behavioral studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying meat-reducing dietary changes. OBJECTIVES The main aim of this study was to compare the motives associated with stages of change toward meat reduction in French adults, using the transtheoretical model (TTM). A second aim was to investigate the associations between stages of change and adherence to dietary patterns favoring a better balance of animal and plant food consumption over time. METHODS This longitudinal study included 25,143 non-vegetarian participants of the web-based NutriNet-Santé cohort with a mean follow-up of 6.2 (SD = 2.6) y. Dietary data were obtained from 24-h dietary records over the period 2009-2019. The contribution of meat to total energy intake and scores measuring the contribution of healthy and unhealthy plant-based foods to the diet were computed. A questionnaire completed in 2018 allowed us to identify the TTM stages of change related to meat reduction (precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance), and recorded motives related to meat consumption. We used multivariate linear mixed models for repeated data to assess associations between food intake changes and stages, and logistic regression for motives, presented as adjusted frequencies. RESULTS Participants in later stages were characterized by a significantly higher decrease in meat intake over time, compared with the earliest stage (for example, βmaintenance ∗ time = -0.08, P < 0.0001), and a higher increase in the healthy plant-based food consumption score over time (for example, βmaintenance∗time = 0.11, P < 0.0001). Concerns about health, nutrition, and the environment were the most frequently cited motives for reducing meat consumption at all stages. CONCLUSIONS Individuals who had already initiated meat reduction adhered to healthier and more sustainable diets than meat continuers. Characterizing motives according to readiness to reduce meat consumption could support tailored public health campaigns. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER The study protocol is registered at clinicaltrials.gov with Clinical Trial Registry number NCT03335644 available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03335644.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouk Reuzé
- EREN, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, CRESS, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, France.
| | - Caroline Méjean
- MOISA, Université de Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, IRD, Institut Agro, Montpellier, France
| | - Lucie Sirieix
- MOISA, Université de Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, IRD, Institut Agro, Montpellier, France
| | - Julia Baudry
- EREN, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, CRESS, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, France
| | | | | | - Joséphine Brunin
- EREN, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, CRESS, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, France; Agence de l'Environnement et de la Maîtrise de l'Energie (ADEME), Angers, France
| | - Serge Hercberg
- EREN, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, CRESS, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, France
| | - Mathilde Touvier
- EREN, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, CRESS, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, France
| | - Sandrine Péneau
- EREN, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, CRESS, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, France
| | - Benjamin Allès
- EREN, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, CRESS, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, France
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18
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Flint M, Bowles S, Lynn A, Paxman JR. Novel plant-based meat alternatives: future opportunities and health considerations. Proc Nutr Soc 2023; 82:370-385. [PMID: 36603854 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665123000034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Present food systems threaten population and environmental health. Evidence suggests reduced meat and increased plant-based food consumption would align with climate change and health promotion priorities. Accelerating this transition requires greater understanding of determinants of plant-based food choice. A thriving plant-based food industry has emerged to meet consumer demand and support dietary shift towards plant-based eating. 'Traditional' plant-based diets are low-energy density, nutrient dense, low in saturated fat and purportedly associated with health benefits. However, fast-paced contemporary lifestyles continue to fuel growing demand for meat-mimicking plant-based convenience foods which are typically ultra-processed. Processing can improve product safety and palatability and enable fortification and enrichment. However, deleterious health consequences have been associated with ultra-processing, though there is a paucity of equivocal evidence regarding the health value of novel plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) and their capacity to replicate the nutritional profile of meat-equivalents. Thus, despite the health halo often associated with plant-based eating, there is a strong rationale to improve consumer literacy of PBMAs. Understanding the impact of extensive processing on health effects may help to justify the use of innovative methods designed to maintain health benefits associated with particular foods and ingredients. Furthering knowledge regarding the nutritional value of novel PBMAs will increase consumer awareness and thus support informed choice. Finally, knowledge of factors influencing engagement of target consumer subgroups with such products may facilitate production of desirable, healthier PBMAs. Such evidence-based food manufacturing practice has the potential to positively influence future individual and planetary health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Flint
- Food and Nutrition Subject Group, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S1 1WB, UK
| | - Simon Bowles
- Food and Nutrition Subject Group, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S1 1WB, UK
| | - Anthony Lynn
- Food and Nutrition Subject Group, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S1 1WB, UK
| | - Jenny R Paxman
- Food and Nutrition Subject Group, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S1 1WB, UK
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19
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MacDonald J, Brauer P, Yi S. Meat reduction among post-secondary students: Exploration of motives, barriers, diets and preferences for meals with partial and full meat substitution. Appetite 2023; 188:106977. [PMID: 37454767 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106977] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Before developing new meat reduction interventions to support increased sustainability, it is important to understand the motives, diets and preferences of consumers who have already made efforts to reduce meat consumption. While self-declaration has been typically used to identify meat reducers, food frequency data suggests some reducers still identify as omnivores, here termed transitional meat reducers. We compared these "transitional" meat reducers to self-declared meat reducers, unrestricted omnivores and vegetarians/vegans for differences in diet, motives for reducing meat, and perceived barriers to consuming more legumes (dried beans, peas or lentils) and plant-based meat alternative products (PBMAs). We also compared their intention to choose four specific entrees where legumes or PBMAs had partially or fully replaced meat. A convenience sample of Canadian university students completed an online survey (N = 438). 34% of participants were self-declared meat reducers, 16% transitional meat reducers, 33% unrestricted omnivores and 16% vegetarians/vegans. Frequency of eating red meat differed, with self-declared meat reducers eating red meat less often than either transitional meat reducers or unrestricted omnivores. Motives for meat reduction were similar in the two reducer groups. Transitional meat reducers reported significantly more frequent consumption of other protein foods and more barriers to legumes but not PBMA, than either unrestricted omnivores or self-declared meat reducers. Lastly, intention to consume all versions of entrees was very similar in both reducer groups, but with increased preference for full vs partial substitution among self-declared reducers. Transitional meat reducers may be a distinct group for meat reduction interventions compared to omnivores or self-declared reducers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica MacDonald
- Department of Marketing & Consumer Studies, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Paula Brauer
- Department of Family Relations & Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Sunghwan Yi
- Department of Marketing & Consumer Studies, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
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20
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Seffen AE, Dohle S. What motivates German consumers to reduce their meat consumption? Identifying relevant beliefs. Appetite 2023; 187:106593. [PMID: 37150256 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106593] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
High levels of meat consumption cause problems related to public health, the environment, and animal welfare. Therefore, it is crucial to improve our understanding of the drivers and barriers involved in reducing meat consumption. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), we examined to what extent attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control (PBC) affect intention and willingness to reduce meat consumption. In line with the TPB and going beyond existing literature, we also explored which specific beliefs determine these three constructs. In 2021, we conducted an online survey with a sample representative of the German population (N = 1093). Hierarchical regression models revealed that after controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, the TPB constructs explained 55% of the variance in intention and 61% of the variance in willingness. Importantly, each of the three TPB constructs affected intention and willingness to reduce meat consumption, with attitude having the largest impact. Habit strength and past behavior in addition to the TPB constructs did not improve prediction. Multiple linear regression models showed that attitude was determined by the beliefs that reducing meat consumption leads to a healthier diet, a reduced risk of developing certain diseases, a more natural diet, and the feeling of missing meat. In contrast, environmental and animal welfare concerns showed no significant effect on attitude. Both family and friends contributed to the perceived social pressure. The beliefs of being able to prepare meat-free meals, having enough time to spend on one's diet, and being able to easily purchase meat substitutes led to higher PBC. Based on these findings, we provide recommendations for intervention strategies and derive implications for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simone Dohle
- University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; University of Cologne, Germany.
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21
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Strässner AM, Hartmann C. Gradual behaviour change towards meat reduction: Development and validation of a novel decisional balance scale. Appetite 2023; 186:106537. [PMID: 36933833 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Meat reduction is gaining attention among consumers, marketers, policymakers and scientists. Yet little is known about decision-making processes and behaviour change towards meat reduction. This paper explores the applicability of the decisional balance (DB) framework to the field of meat reduction. A novel DB scale to measure the perceived importance of beliefs about meat reduction at different stages of behaviour change was developed and validated in two studies with German meat eaters. In Study 1 (N = 309), the item inventory was tested using an exploratory factor analysis and then validated in Study 2 (N = 809). The results yielded two higher-order DB factors (pros and cons), which were subdivided into five lower-order factors (perceived benefits of a plant-based diet, downsides of factory farming, health barriers, legitimation barriers and feasibility barriers). The pros and cons were summarised in a DB index. All DB factors and the DB index were tested for internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ≥.70) and aspects of validity. The typical DB pattern of the pros and cons of behaviour change was confirmed: the cons outweighed the pros for consumers who did not intend to reduce meat consumption, while the pros outweighed the cons for consumers who intended to reduce meat consumption. The new DB scale for meat reduction has proven to be a suitable measure to gain insights into consumers' decision making and could be used to develop targeted meat reduction interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Maria Strässner
- Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of Management and Law, Institute of Marketing Management, Switzerland.
| | - Christina Hartmann
- ETH Zurich, Department of Environmental Systems Science, Consumer Behaviour, Switzerland.
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22
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Understanding the consumption of plant-based meat alternatives and the role of health-related aspects. A study of the Italian market. Int J Gastron Food Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgfs.2023.100690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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23
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Caso G, Rizzo G, Migliore G, Vecchio R. Loss framing effect on reducing excessive red and processed meat consumption: Evidence from Italy. Meat Sci 2023; 199:109135. [PMID: 36796286 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2023.109135] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
A reduction of meat consumption is crucial for addressing public health problems, especially in industrialized countries. Among low-cost interventions, emotionally provocative health-information strategies could be effective options in fostering meat reduction. Through an online experimental survey, administrated to a quota-based national sample (N = 1142), this study analysed the profile of Italians consuming red/processed meat above World Health Organization (WHO) recommended amounts. Via a between-subjects design, the research tested whether two health frame-nudges (societal impact and individual impact of over consumption) persuaded these individuals to reduce future meat consumption. Results showed that adhering to an omnivore diet, higher consumption of meat than peers, household size (larger) and positive moral perception of meat consumption increased the likelihood of overconsumption. In addition, both nudges proved to be effective in positively impacting future intentions to reduce meat consumption among individuals exceeding WHO recommended amounts. The two frame-nudges were more effective among females, respondents with children in the household and individuals with a low health status perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerarda Caso
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 96, Portici, Naples 80055, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Rizzo
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Building 4, Palermo 90128, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Migliore
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Building 4, Palermo 90128, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Vecchio
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 96, Portici, Naples 80055, Italy.
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24
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Salehi G, Díaz E, Redondo R. Forty-five years of research on vegetarianism and veganism: A systematic and comprehensive literature review of quantitative studies. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16091. [PMID: 37223710 PMCID: PMC10200863 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Meat production and consumption are sources of animal cruelty, responsible for several environmental problems and human health diseases, and contribute to social inequality. Vegetarianism and veganism (VEG) are two alternatives that align with calls for a transition to more ethical, sustainable, and healthier lifestyles. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic literature review of 307 quantitative studies on VEG (from 1978 to 2023), collected from the Web of Science in the categories of psychology, behavioral science, social science, and consumer behavior. For a holistic view of the literature and to capture its multiple angles, we articulated our objectives by responding to the variables of "WHEN," "WHERE," "WHO," "WHAT," "WHY," "WHICH," and "HOW" (6W1H) regarding the VEG research. Our review highlighted that quantitative research on VEG has experienced exponential growth with an unbalanced geographical focus, accompanied by an increasing richness but also great complexity in the understating of the VEG phenomenon. The systematic literature review found different approaches from which the authors studied VEG while identifying methodological limitations. Additionally, our research provided a systematic view of factors studied on VEG and the variables associated with VEG-related behavior change. Accordingly, this study contributes to the literature in the field of VEG by mapping the most recent trends and gaps in research, clarifying existing findings, and suggesting directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gelareh Salehi
- Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Universidad Pontificia Comillas. ICADE, Spain
- Business Management Department, Spain
| | - Estela Díaz
- Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Universidad Pontificia Comillas. ICADE, Spain
- Business Management Department, Spain
| | - Raquel Redondo
- Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Universidad Pontificia Comillas. ICADE, Spain
- Quantitative and Statistical Analysis Department, Spain
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25
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Kondrup SV, Holm L, Sandøe P, Lund TB. Various ways towards animal product limiting - Practical and social engagements in initial phase of dietary change. Appetite 2023; 186:106571. [PMID: 37068549 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Reducing one's consumption of foods containing animal products, or avoiding such foods altogether, has become part of everyday life for many people in the Western world. People's motivations for such "animal product limiting" are well-established, but the ways in which individuals enact and experience dietary change in the initial phase are not well understood. Nor is it clear whether, and how, these people present their dietary changes to others. Through the analysis of interviews with 28 people residing in Denmark who had recently (<9 months) embarked on flexitarian, vegetarian or vegan diets, this paper explores how people, in the initial phase of trying to consume fewer, or no, foods with animal products, (i) engage in the practicalities of daily food activities and (ii) communicate their experiences with, and opinions about, the dietary changes they are making in interpersonal interactions. The findings reveal two very different ways of organising the daily food activities: Foodism and Convenience. They also disclose three different ways of communicating in interpersonal interactions: Ethical advocacy, Plant food demonstration and Anonymisation of diet. The paper offers insights into the variation in practices underlying animal product limiting. It suggests that the plant food sector should cater for people relying on convenient food practices as well as those engaged in more advanced ("foodie") practices. Further, in discussing interpersonal communication in the light of community-based social marketing, we argue that the findings highlight how animal product limiters, in everyday social life, may be able to encourage more people to embark on animal product limiting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara V Kondrup
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Food and Resource Economics, Rolighedsvej 23, 1958, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | - Lotte Holm
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Food and Resource Economics, Rolighedsvej 23, 1958, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | - Peter Sandøe
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Food and Resource Economics, Rolighedsvej 23, 1958, Frederiksberg C, Denmark; University of Copenhagen, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Grønnegårdsvej 15, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | - Thomas B Lund
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Food and Resource Economics, Rolighedsvej 23, 1958, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
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Bryant C, Ross E, Flores C. Going through changes: A longitudinal study of meat reduction over time in the UK. Food Qual Prefer 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2023.104854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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Kemper JA, Benson-Rea M, Young J, Seifert M. Cutting down or eating up: Examining meat consumption, reduction, and sustainable food beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. Food Qual Prefer 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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28
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Factors affecting stated liking for meat products: Focus on demographics, oral responsiveness, personality, and psycho-attitudinal traits. Meat Sci 2023; 195:109004. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2022.109004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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29
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Kolbuszewska M, Anderson J, Milyavskaya M. Autonomous motivation, goal-facilitating behaviours, and dietary goal progress in individuals transitioning to a veg*n diet: A longitudinal study. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1019714. [PMID: 36619095 PMCID: PMC9815618 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1019714] [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: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have consistently shown that autonomous motivation - pursuing goals because one wants to, rather than has to - is associated with greater behaviour maintenance in the context of healthy eating, exercise, and diet maintenance. The present study used a 7-wave longitudinal design to examine how autonomous motivation is related to dietary goal progress in individuals (N = 222) transitioning to a veg*n (i.e., vegetarian or vegan) diet. We hypothesized that when people reported more autonomous motivation (compared to their own average) they would be more successful in reaching their dietary goals. We also explored the role of goal-facilitating behaviours in this process. We found no directional effects of relative autonomous motivation on goal progress or goal-facilitating behaviours, although the concurrent relations were significant. There were also no within-person effects of behaviours on progress. These findings shed light onto the relationship between autonomous motivation, behaviours, and goal progress both at the same time and over time, and highlight the importance of examining within-person fluctuations over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Kolbuszewska
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Marina Milyavskaya
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada,*Correspondence: Marina Milyavskaya,
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Hielkema MH, Onwezen MC, Reinders MJ. Veg on the menu? Differences in menu design interventions to increase vegetarian food choice between meat-reducers and non-reducers. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Affiliation(s)
- Wusheng Yu
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Dejgård Jensen
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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32
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A transition towards plant-based diets on its way? Consumers’ substitutions of meat in their diets in Finland. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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33
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Perez-Cueto FJ, Rini L, Faber I, Rasmussen MA, Bechtold KB, Schouteten JJ, De Steur H. How barriers towards plant-based food consumption differ according to dietary lifestyle: Findings from a consumer survey in 10 EU countries. Int J Gastron Food Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgfs.2022.100587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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34
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Palnau JF, Ziegler M, Lämmle L. You Are What You Eat and So Is Our Planet: Identifying Dietary Groups Based on Personality and Environmentalism. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159354. [PMID: 35954710 PMCID: PMC9367778 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Behavioral change interventions promoting the reduction of animal product consumption are valuable tools to improve ecological sustainability as well as public health and help the mitigation of climate change. Recent findings revealed improved efficacy of interventions targeted at barriers (e.g., self-efficacy) of three different types of meat consumers over non-targeted interventions (e.g., completion of unrelated surveys). However, such interventions have yet to factor in the role of individual differences in personality. Therefore, in a first step, we performed segmentation analysis on barriers and benefits of reducing animal product consumption (e.g., meat attachment, environmentalism) with the inclusion of personality. In an online sample of N=1135 participants, latent profile analysis revealed five distinct dietary groups: “plant-based eaters”, “meat-reducers”, “medium-hindrance meat eaters”, “medium strong-hindrance meat eaters, and “strong-hindrance meat eaters”, based on inhibitors and facilitators of meat reduction. Groups differed in terms of consumption of different animal products (η2=0.08 to η2=0.80) as well as the Big Five (η2=0.08 to η2=0.80) and Dark Triad (η2=0.08 to η2=0.80). Strong-hindrance meat eaters were characterized by low Conscientiousness, Agreeableness, and Openness as well as high dark trait expression, implying new targets for future intervention design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Felix Palnau
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Human Sciences, Medical School Hamburg, 20457 Hamburg, Germany;
- Correspondence:
| | - Matthias Ziegler
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Lena Lämmle
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Human Sciences, Medical School Hamburg, 20457 Hamburg, Germany;
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Pais DF, Marques AC, Fuinhas JA. The cost of healthier and more sustainable food choices: Do plant-based consumers spend more on food? AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD ECONOMICS 2022; 10:18. [PMID: 35909388 PMCID: PMC9321292 DOI: 10.1186/s40100-022-00224-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Plant-based diets are often promoted as healthier and more sustainable and thus as a mechanism to achieve the targets proposed to mitigate climate change and noncommunicable diseases. However, plant-based diets can be perceived as more expensive than the common omnivorous diets, when considering the expensive novel meat substitutes and also the higher costs of fruits and vegetables, whose consumption is perceived to increase. Therefore, the present study assesses the question: Do plant-based consumers spend more on food compared to omnivorous consumers? Based on primary data (n = 1040) collected through an online survey, representative of the Portuguese population, through logistic regressions, it was possible to conclude that plant-based consumers, particularly vegan, are associated with lower food expenditures compared to omnivorous consumers. In fact, plant-based consumers are shown to spend less than all other consumers assessed. Food policies aligning healthiness and sustainability with affordability can deliver a major boost for the promotion of plant-based diets and help achieve the mitigation targets proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Francisco Pais
- Management and Economics Department, NECE-UBI, University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - António Cardoso Marques
- Management and Economics Department, NECE-UBI, University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - José Alberto Fuinhas
- NECE-UBI, CeBER and Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, Av. Dr. Dias da Silva 165, 3004-512 Coimbra, Portugal
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36
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Ueland Ø, Rødbotten R, Varela P. Meat consumption and consumer attitudes - A Norwegian perspective. Meat Sci 2022; 192:108920. [PMID: 35901582 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2022.108920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Norway has lower meat consumption than other North European countries. Meat is acknowledged as important for food security in Norway, as Norway's agricultural possibilities are best suited for free-ranging and self-foraging animals. Meat has a strong position in the Norwegian diet, particularly as a centrepiece for special occasions. Good taste, product variety, and affordable price make meat a convenient choice. Norwegian consumers are not worried about animal welfare in local production, nor highly driven by environmental motives for reducing their consumption. Meat analogues have a very small market share, and taste and processing level do not make it a primary replacement for meat reducers. Still, Norwegian consumers' attitudes towards meat have become more diverse in later years. More consumer segments display meat-reducing behaviours citing both health and sustainability reasons. Females are particularly interested in reducing meat consumption, young age and urban lifestyle are other characteristics of meat reducing segments.
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37
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Henn K, Bøye Olsen S, Goddyn H, Bredie WL. Willingness to replace animal-based products with pulses among consumers in different European countries. Food Res Int 2022; 157:111403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2022.111403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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38
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Reducing meat consumption: The influence of life course transitions, barriers and enablers, and effective strategies according to young Dutch adults. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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39
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Verain MC, Dagevos H, Jaspers P. Flexitarianism in the Netherlands in the 2010 decade: Shifts, consumer segments and motives. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2021.104445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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40
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Bryant CJ, Prosser AMB, Barnett J. Going veggie: Identifying and overcoming the social and psychological barriers to veganism. Appetite 2021; 169:105812. [PMID: 34838870 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We conceptualize the journey to ethical veganism in the stages of the transtheoretical model of change, from precontemplation through contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. At each stage, we explore the psychological barriers to progressing towards veganism, discuss how they manifest, and explore ways to overcome them. It is hoped that this paper can be used as a guide for animal advocates to identify the stage an individual is at, and understand and overcome the social and psychological barriers they may face to progressing. We argue that, while many people are ignorant of the cruel practices entailed in animal farming, many deliberately avoid thinking about the issue, are unable to appreciate the scale of the issue, and simply tend to favour the status quo. When engaging with the issue of farm animal suffering, meat-eaters are largely driven by cognitive dissonance, which manifests as motivated reasoning aimed at protecting one's image of oneself and one's society. This is facilitated by confirmation bias and complicit media which cater to the preferred views of their meat-eating audience. Even once convinced of veganism, habit and willpower present further barriers to acting on those beliefs. This is all in the context of a speciesist and carnistic culture where meat consumption is normal, farming is noble, and vegans are 'others'. We locate and elucidate each of these biases within the stages of the transtheoretical model and discuss the implications of this model for animal advocates and for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Bryant
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom.
| | - Annayah M B Prosser
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Barnett
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
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41
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Varela P, Arvisenet G, Gonera A, Myhrer KS, Fifi V, Valentin D. Meat replacer? No thanks! The clash between naturalness and processing: An explorative study of the perception of plant-based foods. Appetite 2021; 169:105793. [PMID: 34748877 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A shift towards a plant-based diet is desired to promote sustainability, improve health, and minimize animal suffering. However, many consumers are not willing to make such a transition, because of attachment to meat and unwillingness to change habits. The present work explored the perception of Norwegian and French consumers' attitudes, barriers and opportunities to increase the likelihood of a shift in diet. Three creative focus groups (CFGs), using interactive tasks such as photo-collage, projective mapping, story completion and third person technique, were run with omnivorous adult consumers in each country. CFGs gathers undirected feedback, providing less biased responses than other exploration methods, related to e.g. social norms. In both countries, results were in general lines comparable. Nutritional knowledge was low regarding vegetable proteins; familiar sources of protein were mostly animal. There is a strong gap between respondents' desired behaviour (balancing nutrition, eating less meat) and their actual behaviour: meat is very important, and the menu is often organized around it. Consumers are curious about vegetable sources of protein, but major constraints were hedonics in France, and convenience in Norway. The main barrier to a shift in diet is the lack of knowledge on how to prepare plant-based meals. Many participants find a conflict between health & sustainability in industrial products, perceiving them as highly processed and suggesting that meat replacers might not be a straightforward way to drive omnivorous consumers to shift to a more plant-based diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Varela
- Sensory, Consumer Sciences & Innovation, Nofima, As, Norway.
| | - Gaëlle Arvisenet
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRAE, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Antje Gonera
- Sensory, Consumer Sciences & Innovation, Nofima, As, Norway
| | | | - Viridiana Fifi
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRAE, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Dominique Valentin
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRAE, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
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Arnaudova M, Brunner TA, Götze F. Examination of students' willingness to change behaviour regarding meat consumption. Meat Sci 2021; 184:108695. [PMID: 34695682 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2021.108695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the behaviour of Swiss students regarding meat consumption by analysing their current consumption habits, attitudes and knowledge, acceptance of meat alternatives and willingness to reduce meat intake. Data were collected through an online survey conducted in universities and universities of applied sciences among German- and French-speaking students in Switzerland (n = 498). By segmenting the student population using an adapted transtheoretical model of change, four distinct clusters were identified: passive (14.7%), curious (6%), awoken (44.7%) and active consumers (34.6%). The results provide a deeper insight into Swiss students' dietary patterns, attitudes and knowledge concerning the impact of meat consumption as along with concrete practical interventions to target the different clusters and initiate and promote behaviour change regarding meat consumption. The ideal recommendations depend on the current stage of behaviour change. However, to reduce meat consumption, policy makers need to set specific, quantifiable goals within defined time frames while involving a variety of stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Arnaudova
- Bern University of Applied Sciences, School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (HAFL), Food Science & Management, Länggasse 85, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Thomas A Brunner
- Bern University of Applied Sciences, School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (HAFL), Food Science & Management, Länggasse 85, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland.
| | - Franziska Götze
- Bern University of Applied Sciences, School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (HAFL), Food Science & Management, Länggasse 85, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland.
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Green or clean? Perception of clean label plant-based products by omnivorous, vegan, vegetarian and flexitarian consumers. Food Res Int 2021; 149:110652. [PMID: 34600654 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2021.110652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Consumers are increasingly interested in health and sustainability aspects of their diets. Meat reduction diets have gained popularity with some consumers, leading to an increase in plant-based products in the markets. Additionally, the demand for more natural and healthier products is associated with the clean label trend. But how these two trends relate to each other, has not yet been widely investigated. The aim of the present research was to explore the perception of different consumers (vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians and omnivores), towards clean label, plant-based products in order to better understand their motivations and attitudes. Consumers in Spain, followers of these four diets, participated in a projective mapping task - categorisation of twenty plant-based products (ten clean label and ten original products) - and answered a health and sustainability attitudes survey. The results showed that according to the diet followed by the consumers, they categorised and perceived the products differently, in line with their attitudes. Meat-reducer and avoider consumers paid more attention to quality and health and presented a greater concern for animal welfare and sustainability. Also, they focused on the clean label status for product categorization, while omnivores did not separate between original and clean label products. The present study shows a first exploration of how consumers with different relation to meat (frequent consumption-reduction-avoidance) perceive clean label plant-based products, in relation to their attitudes to health and sustainability, a building block on the way to support consumers in the transition to healthier, more sustainable diets.
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Collier ES, Oberrauter LM, Normann A, Norman C, Svensson M, Niimi J, Bergman P. Identifying barriers to decreasing meat consumption and increasing acceptance of meat substitutes among Swedish consumers. Appetite 2021; 167:105643. [PMID: 34389377 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
A key lifestyle change people could make to reduce their environmental impact is to reduce their meat consumption. However, meat is still a staple in many people's diet, and some consumers are reluctant to cut down. Meat substitutes, if accepted as adequate replacements for meat, may offer a suitable alternative without leaving consumers feeling dissatisfied. The aim of the present study was to identify psychological barriers to reducing meat consumption and increasing use of meat substitutes among Swedish consumers. Participants engaged in focus group discussions around purchasing, preparing, and consuming meat and meat substitutes. Four main themes were identified through thematic analysis: uncertainty, scepticism, health, and identity. These are discussed in relation to previous work on the barriers to reducing meat consumption. Strategies to communicate the environmental impact of meat to consumers and effect change through behavioural interventions are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Collier
- Perception & Design Unit, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Malvinas väg 3, 114-28, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Lisa-Maria Oberrauter
- Perception & Design Unit, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Frans Perssons väg 6, 412-76, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anne Normann
- Perception & Design Unit, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Frans Perssons väg 6, 412-76, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Norman
- Perception & Design Unit, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Frans Perssons väg 6, 412-76, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marlene Svensson
- Perception & Design Unit, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Frans Perssons väg 6, 412-76, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jun Niimi
- Perception & Design Unit, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Frans Perssons väg 6, 412-76, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Penny Bergman
- Perception & Design Unit, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Frans Perssons väg 6, 412-76, Gothenburg, Sweden
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