Perception of functional food consumption by adults: Is there any difference between generations?

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the perception of young adults and middle-aged adults about functional foods and to relate it to socioeconomic, health, and consumption factors. The study participants, both male and female adults (n = 522), completed two questionnaires. The first questionnaire addressed socioeconomic and health aspects, which were designed by the researchers. The second questionnaire focused on attitudes related to the consumption of functional foods, evaluating consumers' perceived needs, benefits, confidence, and safety. The results demonstrated that adults hold a positive perception of functional foods, acknowledging their benefits and the need for consumption. However, there is some skepticism regarding the credibility of functional food claims. Income and education level appear to be factors that influence adults' perception of functional food consumption. Middle-aged adults (45 to 65 years) tend to perceive functional foods as medications, while young adults (18 to 44 years) who consider nutritional quality important when choosing food for consumption tend to have a better perception of functional foods. The recognition of the benefits and the need for functional foods indicates that this market remains promising. However, measures to instill greater consumer confidence should be adopted.