A Consumer Segmentation Study of Nutrition Information Seeking and Its Relation to Food Consumption in Beijing, China

Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify consumer groups based on nutrition information-seeking behavior and how it relates to food consumption. Although the Chinese public can now access nutrition information through different channels, research on the segmentation of homogeneous consumer groups seeking nutrition information is lacking. This study closes this research gap and, in doing so, also shows how information seeking is related to dietary behavior. A questionnaire was sent out to a stratified random sample in Beijing, resulting in 448 responses. A cluster analysis using hierarchical methods was conducted, identifying four distinct consumer groups: Multi-Channel (27.43%), Mass Media (20.57%), Moderate (27.88%), and Uninterested (24.12%). The four segments differed significantly concerning food consumption frequencies, food literacy, and sociodemographic characteristics. Consumers who were more involved in nutrition information tended to eat healthier. Our findings indicate that nutrition information is worth promoting, but this kind of intervention is not a cure-all. Targeted interventions should focus on uninterested populations by providing non-informational nudging strategies to promote healthy eating behaviors. This study contributes to the identification of meaningful profiles for targeted interventions, particularly as regards uninterested or unreached consumers.

Are Foods from the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown Low in Nutrients? An Analysis of Chinese Psychological Distress Effects

“…During the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, Chinese consumption of salty snacks and alcoholic beverages declined statistically by 2.9% and 2.4%, respectively. This study confirmed the idea that during the pandemic lockdown, Chinese people emphasized nutrition and food-based dietary guidelines, which was consistent with other findings (e.g., [ 22 , 24 ]). Individuals can develop and maintain healthy eating habits, stay physically fit, and even lower their risk of underlying diseases, such as obesity and cardiovascular disease, by consuming adequate amounts of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals (i.e., fruits and vegetables) and limiting their intake of sugary beverages (by replacing them with sugar-free beverages) [ 7 , 9 , 16 , 19 , 38 ].…”

“…Eight standard questions about information sources for food guidance and regularity of getting trustworthy recommendations for a healthy diet were used to gauge the effectiveness of food advice [ 24 , 27 , 35 ]. Each item was scored on a 7-point Likert scale (1 = never; 7 = always needed/wanted).…”

“…Making dietary decisions to maximize the chance of nutritional food consumption frequently involves seeking out food advice [ 24 , 25 ]. According to two works of research on Chinese immigrants living abroad, family members’ opinions on food were among the most important elements in determining a healthy diet [ 26 , 27 ].…”

“…According to two works of research on Chinese immigrants living abroad, family members’ opinions on food were among the most important elements in determining a healthy diet [ 26 , 27 ]. Consumers in Beijing were found to be more interested in nutrition information and had a tendency to eat healthier, according to a cross-sectional survey [ 24 ]. Given that information-seeking behavior is related to food consumption, while psychological distress is linked to the consumption of energy-dense and low-nutrient foods, research questions (RQ) were proposed to learn how the lockdown induced psychological distress, as well as discern its impact on nutrient-dense and low-nutrient diets.…”

The Impact of Health Risk Perception on Blockchain Traceable Fresh Fruits Purchase Intention in China

“…Increased urbanization and the rapid growth of the Chinese middle-income group have unprecedentedly changed their purchasing attention, particularly in food quality, nutrition, and food safety [1][2][3]. Today, consumers are fully aware of the effects of excessive pesticides and chemical fertilizer use on food crops [4].…”