Consumer Knowledge and Perception of Organic Foods


Authors : H.M.N.M Heenkenda

Volume/Issue : Volume 8 - 2023, Issue 7 - July

Google Scholar : https://bit.ly/3TmGbDi

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/44tr48vn

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8246254

Abstract : Organic farming is rapidly gaining popularity in Sri Lanka as consumers become increasingly concerned about toxic chemical residues in their food. This study conducted 100 interviews with consumers at organic food sale centers in Colombo to assess consumer perception and knowledge gaps regarding organic food labels. The findings revealed that consumers were primarily motivated to purchase organic products due to anticipated positive health effects and the desire to avoid toxic chemicals. However, consumers who did not buy organic products cited difficulties in finding them, a lack of understanding about organic labeling, and satisfaction with other labeled safe products. The study identified a general lack of knowledge among consumers regarding organic farming, specific production methods, and the distinction between "safe" and "organic" food. Consumers struggled to identify organic products due to limited knowledge of organic labels. Despite this, the study found a significant level of awareness and consumption of organic food among the sample population, with consumers believing it was safer for their health. However, availability was cited as a barrier by eight percent of non-consumers. Based on the research findings, recommendations include the development of government policies for organic food production, production of organic foods under responsible brand names, establishment of organic production standards, educational programs on organic farming, and increasing the availability of organic foods. In conclusion, this study highlights the need to improve consumer knowledge and awareness of organic labels in Sri Lanka. The findings emphasize the importance of increasing the availability of organic products and implementing measures to educate consumers about organic farming and its benefits.

Keywords : Consumers, Organic Foods, Perception, Safe Foods.

Organic farming is rapidly gaining popularity in Sri Lanka as consumers become increasingly concerned about toxic chemical residues in their food. This study conducted 100 interviews with consumers at organic food sale centers in Colombo to assess consumer perception and knowledge gaps regarding organic food labels. The findings revealed that consumers were primarily motivated to purchase organic products due to anticipated positive health effects and the desire to avoid toxic chemicals. However, consumers who did not buy organic products cited difficulties in finding them, a lack of understanding about organic labeling, and satisfaction with other labeled safe products. The study identified a general lack of knowledge among consumers regarding organic farming, specific production methods, and the distinction between "safe" and "organic" food. Consumers struggled to identify organic products due to limited knowledge of organic labels. Despite this, the study found a significant level of awareness and consumption of organic food among the sample population, with consumers believing it was safer for their health. However, availability was cited as a barrier by eight percent of non-consumers. Based on the research findings, recommendations include the development of government policies for organic food production, production of organic foods under responsible brand names, establishment of organic production standards, educational programs on organic farming, and increasing the availability of organic foods. In conclusion, this study highlights the need to improve consumer knowledge and awareness of organic labels in Sri Lanka. The findings emphasize the importance of increasing the availability of organic products and implementing measures to educate consumers about organic farming and its benefits.

Keywords : Consumers, Organic Foods, Perception, Safe Foods.

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