Jun 28, 2012

New study shows that produce packaging influences buying habits

A new study on produce packaging shows that what’s on the outside definitely influences consumers’ buying habits in the produce aisle.

A team of researchers from Michigan State University found that shoppers prefer to purchase produce that comes in a rigid, bio-based plastic container with a long shelf life. For example, they’ll opt for sweet cherries in rigid containers if given the choice over loose ones in a bag.

“Consumers believe the type of packaging material could affect the quality of the food product, and the rigid container may provide better protection compared to the flexible bag,” said Georgios Koutsimanis, MSU packaging researcher, who with Assistant Professor of Packaging Eva Almenar led the study. “The preference for bio-based versus petroleum-based plastics shows an increased awareness of the environmental aspects of packaging materials.”

Three hundred participants were surveyed as part of MSU’s study.

“The results will primarily enable the fresh produce industry to develop packaging concepts and systems that better meet consumers’ needs and preferences,” Koutsimanis said. “In turn, consumers will benefit from an enhanced packaging convenience and a produce shelf life extension matching current lifestyles.”

The study is scheduled to be published in the journal Appetite.