Consumer priorities in food quality characteristics:

empirical findings from Turkiye

Abstract

This study investigates the prioritization of food quality characteristics among
Turkish consumers and explores the influence of socio-demographic factors on
these preferences. The findings reveal that healthiness, freshness, and aroma are
paramount for consumers, while nutritional value receives comparatively lower
importance. Statistically significant variations in rankings underscore distinct
priorities among consumers, with differences observed across socioeconomic
groups and in regard to gender. University graduates and individuals with higher
incomes prioritize freshness and healthiness, indicating the impact of education
and income on preferences. Notably, even among low-income consumers, price
ranks as the least important characteristic. The study highlights the complex
interactions between consumer preferences and socio-demographic factors, emphasizing
the need for nuanced marketing strategies. The results challenge the
common belief that higher prices imply higher quality, emphasizing the significance
of health-related attributes in shaping consumer choices.