Improving consumer recognition and awareness of food additives through consumer education in South Korea

Jeong Soo Lee, Jung Min Park, Seo Hyun Wi, Yeong Bo Ahn, Na Kyeong Kim, Kyong Whan Moon, Cheul Young Yang, Jin Man Kim

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Consumer awareness of food additives was investigated, and the educational effects of improving consumer awareness of food additives were analyzed. A total of 2,782 out of the 4,090 consumers approached participated in the study. Consumer awareness of food additives was assessed through a questionnaire before educational intervention. The same questionnaire was used post-educational intervention to investigate how this education had influenced consumer understanding of food additives. Before intervention, many consumers lacked accurate knowledge of food additives and, accordingly, felt apprehensive them. However, awareness of food additive safety was improved from 33.1% before education to 78.6% after education. Survey results indicated that awareness of food additives was influenced by consumer experience, education, and knowledge. With proper education, consumers can obtain a positive awareness of food additives, and various types of consumer education programs should be provided.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)653-660
Number of pages8
JournalFood Science and Biotechnology
Volume23
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014 Apr

Keywords

  • consumer
  • educational material
  • food additive

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biotechnology
  • Food Science
  • Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

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