TRALEE, IRELAND - New research released by taste and nutrition company Kerry reveals that consumers’ expectations around sustainability are evolving with a growing number demanding increased sustainability benefits from their food and beverage products.
The survey of over 14,000 consumers across 18 countries uncovered key consumer associations with sustainability and is one of the largest surveys of this type ever to be undertaken, according to the company.
The research shows that 49% of consumers are considering sustainability when buying food and drink and that their understanding of the issue is evolving from environmental and social responsibility to including sustainable wellbeing and sustainable nutrition.
Consumers, particularly those in more sustainability-mature markets such as the United Kingdom, Benelux and France are now considering sustainability as something that directly impacts them, and vice versa. Consumers are especially interested in food waste reduction, personal health and nutrition and clean label claims such as ‘locally sourced,’ ‘no artificial ingredients’ and ‘organic.’
The largest barrier to adopting sustainability remains consumers’ lack of understanding of their personal impact on the planet.
“This research has unveiled some really surprising results that have positioned sustainability as a must-have rather than a differentiator among consumers,” said Soumya Nair, insights director from Kerry. “In addition, the different expectations between consumer demographics shows how consumers expect companies to do more outside of issues such as sustainable packaging, carbon emissions and water conservation. These findings have major implications for the food and drinks industry as we are clearly at a significant and critical moment regarding sustainable nutrition. By helping consumers access more sustainable products, we can help them eat healthier, with less waste and improve local communities as a result.”
For further information, download the full report from www.kerry.com
