European Consumers' Acceptance of Beef Processing Technologies : A Focus Group Study

Use of novel technologies in beef production chains may affect consumers' opinion of meat products. A qualitative study was performed to investigate consumers' acceptance of seven beef processing technologies: marinating by injection for increased 1) healthiness; 2) safety; and 3)eating quality; 4) marinating by submerging for increased eating quality; 5) nutritional enhancement; 6) shock wave treatment and 7) thermal processing. Participants' attitudes towards beef, their innovativeness and risk aversion were also assessed. In total, 65 adults (19-60 y) participated in eight focus groups in Spain, France, Germany and the UK. Results suggested a relationship between acceptance of novel beef products, technology familiarity and perceived risks related to its application. Excessive manipulation and fear of moving away from 'natural' were considered negative outcomes of technological innovations. Novel technologies were predominantly perceived as valuable options for convenience shoppers and less demanding consumers. Overall, respondents supported the development of 'non invasive' technologies that were able to provide more healthiness and better eating quality. Excessive intervention in food production chains was severely criticized and participants expressed their longing to keep beef processing simple and natural