Understanding drivers and barriers of organic vegetable consumption among adult residents in the United Arab Emirates: insights from knowledge, attitudes, and practices analysis

Introduction The organic food sector is expanding globally, driven by growing consumer concerns about health, food safety, and environmental sustainability. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), organic vegetables represent a niche yet emerging market segment. However, empirical evidence on residents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward organic vegetables remains limited. This study investigates the key drivers and barriers influencing organic vegetable consumption among adult residents in the UAE. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted between November 2024 and February 2025 involving 408 UAE residents aged 18 years and older. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and KAP related to organic vegetables. Instrument reliability was confirmed (Cronbach's alpha = 0.8). Statistical analyses included nonparametric tests, Chi-square tests, ANOVA, correlation analyses, and regression analyses, all conducted at the 0.05 significance level. Results Participants demonstrated moderate knowledge of organic vegetables (mean score = 1.18), with 29.7% exhibiting excellent knowledge. Attitudes were predominantly positive (mean = 2.70), and 68.5% of respondents held very good or excellent attitudes. Practices were also favorable (mean = 2.83), with 70.6% reporting very good or excellent engagement. Health benefits, environmental concerns, and food safety emerged as primary motivators. Higher education was significantly associated with better knowledge and practices ( P = 0.01), while age influenced attitudes ( P = 0.006) and practices ( P = 0.048). Key barriers included high prices and limited product availability. Discussion Although UAE consumers hold positive attitudes toward organic vegetables and engage reasonably well with them, structural barriers, particularly affordability and accessibility, impede broader market growth. Education plays a pivotal role in shaping sustainable consumption behaviors. Policy interventions, including awareness campaigns and improved market infrastructure, are essential to foster organic food adoption and support the transition toward more sustainable food systems in the UAE.