Specifically, 25% say that local origin has a major influence on their decision, while another 40% say it has a considerable influence. This preference is also reflected in regular shopping habits: 63% say that locally sourced products are often or very often present in their shopping baskets. However, those who want to choose local food still face several obstacles.
PRICE HOLDS BACK PURCHASES OF LOCAL PRODUCTS
The main obstacle is cost. “Forty-three percent of respondents consider the higher price of locally sourced products a barrier to buying them more frequently,” it says.
Added to this is the difficulty of knowing exactly where food comes from. Four in ten consumers identify the “lack of clear information on labeling” as a barrier, while one in three consider the supply of locally sourced products insufficient.
Almost half of respondents believe that the price of these products is a barrier to buying them
The OCU has previously warned about shortcomings in information on the origin of some fresh foods. According to a study cited by the organization, “between 70% and 95% of meat, fish and eggs sold loose in markets lack information about their origin,” a situation also found with fruit and vegetables.
OCU CALLS FOR BETTER LABELING
To encourage the consumption of local and locally sourced products, consumers themselves point to several measures: supporting local markets, improving labeling and making it easier to identify these foods in stores through signs or dedicated sections.
They also propose prioritizing locally sourced products in public services, such as school cafeterias, hospitals and care homes, as well as promoting campaigns that provide buyers with more information.
The OCU supports this consumption model because of its benefits for sustainability and the local economy. The data show that consumers are interested, although price, supply and the lack of information about origin continue to make it difficult for these foods to gain an even stronger presence in shopping baskets.
