Consumer perceptions of risks of chemical and microbiological contaminants associated with food chains: A cross-national study
article
The development and implementation of effective systems to identify vulnerabilities in food chains to chemical and microbiological contaminants must take account of consumer priorities and preferences. The present investigation attempted to understand consumer perceptions associated with chemical and microbiological contaminants in four specific food chains (drinking water, farmed salmon, chicken and milk powder). To this end, ten focus group discussions were held in five different countries (Poland, Ireland, the Netherlands, France and Brazil). Consumers expressed higher concerns about chemical, as compared with microbial, contaminants. Chemical contaminants were more strongly associated with the potential for severe consequences, long-term effects and lack of personal control. Traceability was considered by consumers as a useful tool that offers the potential to improve consumer confidence in food safety. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
TNO Identifier
469524
ISSN
14706423
Source
International Journal of Consumer Studies, 37(1), pp. 73-83.
Pages
73-83
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