A recent study by the Cargill conglomerate found that 68 percent of the world’s consumers closely monitor the types and amounts of fats contained in packaged foods. Participants reported that fat and oil types strongly influenced their packaged food purchasing decisions.
The 2020 FATitudes study examined the shopping habits of over 6,000 grocery shoppers from twelve countries including the United States, Germany, China, Brazil and the United Kingdom. The data confirmed that most consumers keep an eye on what they are consuming by paying attention to the labeling information on packaged foods.
Olive oil came out tops in every country for being perceived as a healthy oil in packaged foods. Ninety-three percent of global consumers said they were aware that omega-3s are an important nutrient offering numerous health benefits but not always found in typical diets. Avocado and fish oils were also perceived positively.
Around two-thirds of U.S. consumers said they avoid certain fats and oils while 83 percent of “clean-label seekers” claimed to avoid products containing saturated and trans fats.
The study confirmed that most consumers check fat-related labeling claims and shoppers are strongly influenced by claims such as “fat-free” and “low fat.” In most of the surveyed countries, an organic certification label was deemed more influential than a non-GMO verification.
Seventy percent of consumers said the amount of fat in packaged foods was important while 67 percent were concerned about the type of oil used. There was a wide variation in how frequently food labels were read in different countries. While 89 percent of Chinese shoppers claimed they paid attention to labeling, only 48 percent of German consumers said they read food labels.
The annual survey seeks to discover more about consumer awareness, perception and behavior regarding oils and fats contained in packaged goods. Feedback from the study enables food producers to drive decisions in light of the changing consumer demands.
Nese Tagma, managing director of strategy and innovation for Cargill’s global edible oils business said in a press release, “As consumers’ attitudes toward fats and oils have shifted in recent years, we know they’re interested in consuming healthy amounts of oils.”