Exploring Differences in Animal Welfare Food Preferences in Relation to Food Ethics and Food Literacy

As the importance of ethical values and sustainability in food production and consumption increases, so does the interest in organic, eco-friendly, and animal welfare products. This study aims to systematically define the concept of food ethics, identify the factors that constitute it, and figure out its differences on the preference for animal welfare foods. A factor analysis of food ethics revealed four key dimensions of food ethics: environmental conservation, social responsibility, life respect, and primacy of safety. Additionally, the study examined differences in consumer preferences for animal welfare products based on levels of food ethics awareness and food literacy. The findings indicated that while consumer preferences are influenced by demographic factors such as gender and age, these general characteristics have less impact on preferences for animal welfare products. Furthermore, the analysis showed significant differences in food ethics awareness and animal welfare product preferences across different levels of food literacy, highlighting the complex interactions between ethical awareness and consumer behavior. This study underscores the importance of incorporating food ethics into understanding consumer behavior and establishing marketing strategies, thereby fostering a more ethical and sustainable food consumption culture.