Public perceptions of food-related hazards: an application to Portuguese consumers

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2010

Authors

Luis Miguel Cunha (Author) FCUP; Ana Pinto de Moura (Author) Other; Zulmira Lopes (Author) Other; Maria do Ceu Santos (Author) Other; Isidro Silva (Author) Other

Journal

Title: British Food Journal

Vol. 112 No. 5

Pages: 522-543

ISSN: 0007-070X

Publisher: Emerald

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 12 Citations

Scopus - 15 Citations

Scientific classification

FOS: Agrarian Sciences > Other Agrarian Sciences

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-003-AA5

DOI: 10.1108/00070701011043772

Abstract (EN): Purpose The purpose of this research is to assess public perception of food-related hazards by Portuguese consumers at major metropolitan areas. A contrast was searched between controllable and non-controllable hazards. Design/methodology/approach The Perceived Food Risk Index developed by Fife-Schaw and Rowe, was administered to a sample of 666 subjects through a door to door interview using a random route walk procedure and following a quota sampling controlled for sex, age and location. Risk perception was evaluated over ten risk characteristics, for each of the hazards. Findings Through principal component analysis, two main components were identified: "Knowledge" and "Dread". A perceptual map of the hazards was built over these two dimensions. A high level of worry and concern associated with fatty foods was found, clearly contradicting the expected attenuation of risk perception associated to greater perceived personal control. Contrarily to previous findings for other populations, GMOs yielded lower levels of both "Knowledge" and "Dread". Based on risk perceptions, consumers were grouped in four segments: optimists, unconfident, fearless, and fearful. Originality/value This work adds to knowledge on the Portuguese consumer and its risk perceptions, a fairly unreported topic, thus helping to the success of food safety communication by different stakeholders.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 22