Survey says shelf life is important to consumers

A recent study conducted by Kerry reveals that one-third of consumers are willing to switch to brands or products that offer better shelf life.

The study, which involved over 5000 consumers across 10 countries, including Australia, Thailand and South Africa, found that 72% of respondents believe that extending the shelf life of a product would help them reduce waste. Additionally, 74% of consumers consider preservatives to be important when making food purchases.

The survey also showed:

• 98% were actively trying to minimise food waste, driven by various factors such as financial concerns, environmental considerations and mindfulness of world hunger.
• 82% of respondents expressed acceptance of natural preservatives.
• 50% of consumers were open to purchasing products with artificial preservatives.
• 69% of consumers would purchase a product formulated to reduce food waste.

Among consumers in Australia, while there was less emphasis on the importance of preservatives in food and beverages, 78% said they preferred natural preservatives.

Bert De Vegt, VP of Food Protection & Preservation at Kerry, said: “Our research clearly demonstrates that consumers have a strong desire to reduce food waste in their own homes, and they increasingly recognise the role of preservation in achieving this goal. As inflationary pressures remain, preventing products from going to waste has become more crucial than ever.

“With 29 September marking the UN International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, these findings further highlight an urgent need for the food industry to maintain action on food waste and improve the shelf life of products where possible. By doing so, companies can meet the evolving demands of consumers who are increasingly conscious of the impact of food waste on themselves, society, and the planet.”

Kerry’s portfolio includes sodium-free buffered vinegars, potassium acetates, multifunctional systems which are designed to solve preservation challenges, and a range of fermented wheat products for mould control in bread applications. Kerry also sits on the Consumer Goods Forum’s Food Waste Coalition of Action and uses insights to help customers and consumers demystify on-pack labels and date information.

Image courtesy of Kerry.