Analysis of consumers preferences for food packaging and environmental awareness: A case study of Hatay, Türkiye

The aim of this study was to reveal the perspectives of individuals regarding packaged foods, and to evaluate the preferences and environmental importance of packaging for consumers. Data were collected from 402 consumers through face-to-face interviews in 2022. The analysis employed descriptive statistics and factor analysis to identify key factors influencing consumer preferences, with reliability assessed via Cronbach’s alpha. Findings indicate that variables such as hygiene, recyclability, and production origin significantly influence purchasing behavior. In the survey, there were questions about determining the views on packaged foods and environment, material preferences, and their use, along with the socio-demographic characteristics of the consumers. Subsequently, age affects the level of knowledge and awareness of consumers. In this study, participants had different levels of consciousness and education. For this reason, their thoughts on packaged food vary. For most consumers, the price difference between the products, quality product, use of recyclable and environmentally friendly packaging, product content, place and shape of production, and visuality of packaging were found to be important. In addition, hygiene, expiration date, production date, content, price, and quality are the most important factors affecting individuals’ product preferences. The packaging preferences of consumers also vary, depending on the product and price. Glass, nylon bags, and paper/cardboard are the most commonly used food packaging materials among consumers. Consequently, awareness should be created among consumers and the use of recyclable packaging should be encouraged. Besides, training and extension activities on food should be increased for packaging information.