Understanding Consumers' Purchase Intention Towards Meat Produced Without Preventive Antibiotic Use

Area of Science:

• Food science and technology
• Public health
• Consumer behavior

Background:

• Preventive antibiotic use in livestock contributes to antibiotic-resistant pathogens, posing human health risks.
• Understanding consumer attitudes is crucial for promoting antibiotic stewardship in agriculture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate consumer purchase intention for meat produced without preventive antibiotic use.
• To identify key factors influencing this purchase intention in China.

Main Methods:

• Online survey of 1123 participants in China.
• Descriptive statistical analysis, correlation, and regression analysis were employed.

Main Results:

• Consumers exhibited a negative attitude towards preventive antibiotic use in food animals.
• A strong purchase intention was observed for meat produced without preventive antibiotic use.
• Health consciousness, trust, knowledge, residue concerns, and attitudes significantly influenced purchase intention.

Conclusions:

• Consumer demand for meat produced without preventive antibiotics is high.
• Targeted communication strategies addressing consumer concerns are needed for policymakers and the livestock industry.
• Promoting responsible antibiotic use requires understanding and responding to consumer perceptions.