Perception of dehydrated products by Mexican consumers
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Food loss and waste are well documented in Mexico and worldwide. Food insecurity is particularly common in developing countries. Regardless of available drying technologies, primary product dehydration can be an alternative to minimize the loss of highly perishable fresh food products (e.g., fruit and vegetables) and contribute to food security programs, mainly in rural regions where food conservation infrastructures are scarce. Through an online survey from a calculated sample of 885 participants, the Mexican consumers' perception of plant-based dehydrated products mainly was studied. Overall, the primary reasons for consuming dehydrated products were: practicality (22.2 %), flavor (20.4 %), nutritional value (18.0 %), and health benefits (14.0 %). Consumers were also interested in products made from fruit powders. In contrast, 21.1 % of non-consumers found dehydrated products hard to obtain, while 15.9 % were unfamiliar with these products. In conclusion, this study found that the major factors limiting the consumption of dehydrated foods are their low availability, a lack of global knowledge regarding these products, and misconceptions about their cost. This research explored only the consumption of plant-based dehydrated products in Mexico. Therefore, the next step must include animal-based dehydrated products and the socioeconomic stratification of the population.
Source: Future Foods
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,800
Award: G2103917955
OpenAlex ID: W4404011341