Perceptions of organic food in developed and emerging countries
Insights from a comparative literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23882/emss26265Keywords:
organic food, consumer perception, developed countries, emerging countries, food safetyAbstract
Objective : This literature review aims to analyse and compare consumers’ perceptions of organic food in developed and emerging countries, with a particular focus on cultural, health-related, institutional and economic factors shaping attitudes and adoption behaviours.
Method : The study is based on a narrative review of empirical and theoretical publications published between 2000 and 2024, identified through major international academic databases. Articles were selected according to their relevance to the analysis of motivations, perceptions and institutional frameworks related to organic food consumption.
Results : The literature reveals significant contrasts across contexts. In developed countries, organic food is mainly associated with environmental and ethical concerns, as well as trust in certification and regulatory systems. In contrast, in emerging countries, consumer perceptions are primarily driven by health concerns, food safety issues, perceived naturalness and risk reduction. Economic constraints, product availability and institutional trust emerge as cross-cutting factors influencing organic food adoption.
Conclusion : By highlighting context-specific perceptions of organic food, this review contributes to a better understanding of organic food consumption dynamics in developed and emerging economies and provides insights for public policies and the development of organic food sectors.
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