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Understanding Consumer Interest in Organics: Production Values vs. Purchasing Behavior

Author

Listed:
  • Bellows Anne C.

    (Universität Hohenheim)

  • Onyango Benjamin

    (Rutgers University)

  • Diamond Adam

    (USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service)

  • Hallman William K

    (Rutgers University)

Abstract

Extensive research exists on who does or might purchase organic food products, however little research has addressed either who values organic production methods when deciding what to eat, and correspondingly, who does not purchase organics regularly. This paper reports that values about organic farming often do not translate into corresponding stated preferences about organic food consumption behavior. The paradox is examined within the context of the consumers' socio-demographic characteristics as well as through opinions and preferences related to food in their lives.Results show that consumer claims of buying organics and placing importance on organic production systems when deciding what to eat are highly correlated (.472 at 1% significance level; p

Suggested Citation

  • Bellows Anne C. & Onyango Benjamin & Diamond Adam & Hallman William K, 2008. "Understanding Consumer Interest in Organics: Production Values vs. Purchasing Behavior," Journal of Agricultural & Food Industrial Organization, De Gruyter, vol. 6(1), pages 1-31, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:bjafio:v:6:y:2008:i:1:n:2
    DOI: 10.2202/1542-0485.1169
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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