In a recent study conducted by Kerry, a global leader in taste and nutrition, findings indicate a significant willingness among consumers to switch brands or products for better shelf life. The study, encompassing 5,154 consumers across 10 countries, unveils a consumer landscape where one-third of respondents are open to such changes. This shift is largely attributed to consumers' heightened awareness of food waste, with a staggering 98% actively striving to minimize wastage due to financial, environmental, and humanitarian concerns.
Highlights
- A third of consumers show readiness to switch brands for enhanced shelf life.
- 98% of surveyed consumers are actively minimizing food waste.
- 69% express interest in purchasing products designed to reduce food waste.
- Consumers believe extending shelf life can aid in waste reduction.
- Acceptance rates for natural and artificial preservatives are notably high.
- Bert de Vegt, VP of Food Preservation and Protection at Kerry, emphasizes the importance of preservation in waste reduction efforts.
- Kerry's product portfolio includes innovative solutions for preservation challenges.
- The study involved both qualitative and quantitative research methods across multiple countries.
According to Bert de Vegt, Vice President of Food Preservation and Protection at Kerry, the study's results underscore consumers' commitment to curbing food waste. He emphasizes the pivotal role of preservation in this endeavor, particularly amidst inflationary pressures. With September 29th marking the UN International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, Kerry's findings stress the urgency for the food industry to address waste issues. Kerry's product range, including sodium-free buffered vinegars and multifunctional preservation systems, aims to meet evolving consumer demands while contributing to waste reduction efforts. Additionally, Kerry actively participates in initiatives such as the Consumer Goods Forum's Food Waste Coalition of Action, utilizing insights to educate consumers and assist them in deciphering on-pack labels and date information. The study, conducted in early 2023 in collaboration with C+R Research, Qualtrics, and Wageningen University & Research (WUR), employed a combination of qualitative interviews and extensive quantitative surveys across various countries to provide comprehensive insights into consumer attitudes and behaviors regarding food waste.
