IFIC Spotlight Survey: Perceptions On Processed: Consumer Sentiment & Purchasing Habits In 2021
October 19, 2021
Research Type
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Processed foods and beverages are found in nearly every section of the grocery store and are often part of our daily meals, snacks and desserts. But how does processing affect what Americans are buying and eating? In this survey, we aim to find out what Americans’ perceptions and purchasing behaviors are around processed foods and beverages.
The International Food Information Council (IFIC) commissioned an online research survey with consumers based in the US to measure knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about processed foods. One thousand adults aged 18+ years completed the survey from July 7-15, 2021, and responses were weighted to ensure proportional results.
Key findings include:
- The majority of Americans buy processed foods and beverages sometimes or often.
- Half of Americans have not changed the amount of processed foods they’ve purchased over the past three months.
- Many say that they are more likely to buy a processed food or beverage if it is high in protein, enriched or fortified with vitamins and minerals and has natural flavors/colors.
- Consumers are fairly split on their level of concern about processing for different types of foods/beverages.
- When looking at purchase drivers, taste, price and healthfulness greatly outrank whether a food or beverage is processed.