Journal Article

FZJ-2023-02125

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Eco-friendly alternatives to food packed in plastics: German consumers’ purchase intentions for different bio-based packaging strategies

Macht, J. (Corresponding author) ; Klink-Lehmann, J. ; Venghaus, S.FZJ*

2023
Elsevier Amsterdam

This record in other databases:    

Please use a persistent id in citations: http://hdl.handle.net/2128/34455  doi:10.1016/j.foodqual.2023.104884

Abstract: Growing concern about the environmental consequences of plastic packaging has led to the development of strategies that discourage single-use fossil-based plastic packaging and promote sustainable bio-based alternatives. Nevertheless, it is unclear how different bio-based packaging strategies are perceived by consumers. Research suggests an ambivalent relationship regarding bioplastics and a positive perception of paper. In this study, we investigated how consumers’ purchase intentions differ for two bio-based packaging alternatives—bioplastic and paper—in comparison to recyclable fossil-based plastic packaging for three products: fresh soft fruits, margarine/butter, and vegetable oil. Moreover, we explored the mediating roles of perceived eco-friendliness and perceived convenience and tested the moderation effect of green consumption values. In total, 2755 German consumers completed an online survey with a 3x3 between-subjects design in January 2022. The findings show that consumers’ purchase intentions differed between different packaging types and products. The higher consumers perceived the eco-friendliness of the packaging, the higher their purchase intention. This effect was stronger for people with higher green consumption values. While paper-based food packaging was perceived as most eco-friendly, it was not always perceived as convenient, and may therefore lead to rejection. For fresh soft fruits, paper-based packaging appears to be the best solution for consumers. For vegetable oil, the bioplastic option received the highest purchase intention. Nevertheless, there are product categories—such as margarine/butter—where the benefits of bio-based packaging are not obvious to consumers and should therefore be communicated clearly.

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Systemforschung und Technologische Entwicklung (IEK-STE)

Research Program(s):

1. 1112 - Societally Feasible Transformation Pathways (POF4-111) (POF4-111)

Appears in the scientific report 2023

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Database coverage:
; ; ; Clarivate Analytics Master Journal List ; Current Contents - Agriculture, Biology and Environmental Sciences ; Ebsco Academic Search ; Essential Science Indicators ; IF >= 5 ; JCR ; Nationallizenz ; SCOPUS ; Science Citation Index Expanded ; Web of Science Core Collection

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