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Date of Graduation

5-2025

Description

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.

Publication Date

2025

Document Type

Book

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness

Advisor/Mentor

Kemper, Nathan

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Keywords

Social Science

Consumer Preferences for Delayed Ripening in Apples: A Comparative Study of Gene-Edited and All-Natural Fruit Coating

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