Date of Graduation
5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Department
Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness
Advisor/Mentor
Kemper, Nathan
Committee Member
McFadden, Brandon
Second Committee Member
McKenzie, Andrew
Abstract
This study investigates consumer preferences for food waste reduction technologies using a discrete choice experiment and Latent Class Analysis (LCA). Willingness to pay (WTP) results reveal a higher WTP for gene-edited ($2.64/lb) and spray-coated apples ($3.05/lb) relative to untreated apples ($1.80/lb). LCA identifies three consumer segments with distinct preferences and behavioral traits. Segment differences in WTP, food waste concern (F = 12.13, p < 0.001), and consumption habits (F = 20.40, p < 0.001) were statistically significant. Findings highlight the need for tailored marketing and policy strategies to promote the adoption of sustainable technologies and reduce food waste.
Keywords
Gene editing; consumers; market behavior
Citation
Clouthier, K. C. (2025). Consumer Preferences for Delayed Ripening in Apples: A Comparative Study of Gene-Editing and All-Natural Fruit Coating. Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Undergraduate Honors Theses Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/aeabuht/35
