Health Benefits of Dairy Products' Consumption-Consumer Point of View

The aim of this study was to identify and analyse consumer perceptions regarding the health benefits of different dairy products in Poland. This study examines the consumption frequency of selected dairy products in Poland and the health benefits which consumers associate with their regular consumption. It also explores how demographic factors, such as age, gender, and consumption frequency, influence these perceptions and identifies which dairy products are the most linked to specific health benefits. This study involved a quantitative survey of a representative sample of 2009 Polish consumers aged 19-30 and 66-75 years. This study revealed that the vast majority of the consumers recognise the health benefits of dairy products, particularly in areas such as better bone health, enhanced immune function, and improved digestion. The benefits associated with the regular consumption of milk, natural fresh cheeses, and natural fermented milk beverages were most frequently recognised. The respondents' age had no significant effect on their perceptions of the health benefits of the selected dairy products. A statistically significant effect of gender was found only for the perceived benefits of consuming flavoured, fermented milk beverages. The frequency of consumption had a significant effect on the respondents' perceptions of the benefits of all the studied groups of dairy products. In general, the consumers had positive attitudes towards the dairy products and believed in their potential health benefits. These findings have important implications for policy-makers. They underline the need for targeted public health campaigns to promote the consumption of dairy products as part of a balanced diet, emphasizing their specific health benefits. Such efforts could be especially effective if tailored to demographic factors such as gender and dietary habits.