No Cow? Understanding US Consumer Preferences for Plant-Based over Regular Milk-Based Products

Meike Rombach (), Xiaomeng Lucock and David L. Dean
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Meike Rombach: Department of Land Management and Systems, Lincoln University, Lincoln 7647, New Zealand
Xiaomeng Lucock: Department of Agribusiness and Markets, Lincoln University, Lincoln 7647, New Zealand
David L. Dean: Department of Agribusiness and Markets, Lincoln University, Lincoln 7647, New Zealand

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 14, 1-12

Abstract: Dairy products such as cheese, butter, and yoghurt are popular staples in American households; however, alternative plant-based products are gaining increasing popularity. An online survey was conducted to investigate the factors that determine US consumers’ preferences for plant-based and regular milk-based products before and since the occurrence of food price inflation. The study used descriptive statistics and partial least square structural equation modelling for the analysis. The accessibility of plant-based substitutes, the perceived impact of food price inflation and associated consumer behaviour, engagement with food-related activities, and environmental concerns were important factors in both scenarios. Recommendations to marketers on how to target different consumer groups are offered.

Keywords: plant-based milk alternatives; PLS-SEM; environmental impact; food price inflation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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