Drivers, Barriers, and Innovations in Sustainable Food Consumption: A Systematic Literature Review

Bogdan Nichifor (), Luminita Zait and Laura Timiras
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Bogdan Nichifor: Facultatea de Stiinte Economice, Universitatea Vasile Alecsandri din Bacau, Calea Marasesti 157, 600115 Bacau, Romania
Luminita Zait: Facultatea de Stiinte Economice, Universitatea Vasile Alecsandri din Bacau, Calea Marasesti 157, 600115 Bacau, Romania
Laura Timiras: Facultatea de Stiinte Economice, Universitatea Vasile Alecsandri din Bacau, Calea Marasesti 157, 600115 Bacau, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 5, 1-44

Abstract: Sustainable food consumption is crucial for mitigating environmental degradation and promoting social and economic well-being. Despite growing interest in sustainability, significant challenges persist in consumer adoption and market integration. This study conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) to explore the key drivers, obstacles, technological innovations, and corporate strategies shaping sustainable food consumption. The review synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed research published between 2015 and 2024, analyzing patterns across economic, geographic, and sociobehavioral contexts. Health concerns and environmental awareness are primary drivers, complemented by ethical values, taste perception, and social norms. However, economic constraints, limited product availability, lack of awareness, and behavioral inertia hinder its widespread adoption. Technological advancements, including digital platforms, AI-driven food safety solutions, blockchain for traceability, and alternative proteins, present opportunities to address these challenges. Corporate initiatives such as corporate social responsibility (CSR), fair-trade programs, and eco-labeling enhance consumer trust and accessibility. This study highlights key research gaps, particularly regarding cross-cultural variations in sustainable consumption patterns, long-term behavioral shifts, and the role of digital interventions in influencing consumer decision-making. A multi-stakeholder approach involving academia, businesses, and policymakers is crucial for developing strategies to facilitate the transition toward a sustainable and resilient food system.

Keywords: sustainable food consumption; consumer behavior; barriers and motivations; technological innovations; corporate sustainability initiatives (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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