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Consumers' knowledge and attitudes about food additives in the UAE
Tareq M Osaili1,2,3, Reyad S Obaid1,2, Sanaa A I Alkayyali1
1Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, The University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
Plos One
|March 6, 2023
Summary
Consumer knowledge about food additives (FAs) is low in the UAE, with many holding negative attitudes about their safety. Public education is crucial to improve understanding and acceptance of FAs in processed foods.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Consumer Behavior
- Public Health
Background:
- Food additives (FAs) are widely used in food manufacturing globally.
- Consumer knowledge gaps regarding FA safety can lead to negative perceptions and impact purchasing decisions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess consumer knowledge and attitudes towards the use and safety of food additives in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study utilizing an online survey distributed via social media.
- 1037 participants completed the survey.
Main Results:
- Only 26.7% of participants knew what FAs are, and 61% believed all FAs are harmful.
- Perceived purposes of FAs included extending shelf life (92.1%) and improving taste (75.0%).
- Knowledge of FAs increased with age and education; 60% found food labels insufficient.
Conclusions:
- The UAE population exhibits inadequate knowledge and hesitant attitudes towards food additives.
- Enhanced public education initiatives by municipalities and the food industry are recommended to address misconceptions and foster informed consumer choices.
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