Regional analysis in consumer preferences for sustainable palm oil foods: A systematic review

Hilmi, Yahya Shafiyuddin and Nugroho, Agus Dwi and Md Abu, Hasan and Lakner, Zoltán and Unger-Plasek, Brigitta and Temesi, Ágoston (2025) Regional analysis in consumer preferences for sustainable palm oil foods: A systematic review. TRENDS IN FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, 162. No.-105102. ISSN 0924-2244

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Abstract

Background Given the growing body of literature on consumer studies related to sustainable palm oil and its certification, there is a pressing need for a comprehensive study that synthesizes the results and identifies consumers based on regions. Sustainable palm oil can improve the industry's responsibility for ecological and social concerns. The Roundtable Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certification offers premiums for palm oil producers and a reliable source of sustainable palm oil for global needs, particularly in the food market. However, uncertain demand for sustainable palm oil foods and lack of consumers' recognition of the certification could affect the market's long-term goal. Scope and approach A systematic review synthesizes findings from twenty-two primary studies to assess consumer preferences for foods containing sustainable palm oil. This study focuses on analyzing regional differences in shaping consumer behaviors. Key findings and conclusions Our analysis emphasizes significant regional differences in consumer preferences for sustainable palm oil foods. Consumers in Asia, such as Malaysia and Singapore, show greater acceptance of sustainable palm oil foods. In contrast, consumers in several European countries tend to avoid consuming palm oil. This study reveals the limited impact of the RSPO label in improving sustainable palm oil consumption in the food market. We encourage the food industry to leverage market education and targeted messaging to increase consumer awareness of sustainable palm oil foods. Additionally, simplifying and unifying sustainability labels, including RSPO, might be required to improve consumer confidence. Future research should explore policy interventions and regulatory changes in shaping sustainable food consumption while applying experimental research and broadening study coverage to various consumers across regions.

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