Experimental approaches to sustainable food consumption behavior

Abstract

The global food system is reported as a significant contributor to health-related problems and environmental degradation; therefore, international organizations and public authorities increasingly support more sustainable food systems as part of their commitment to the sustainable development goals. Accordingly, an increase in individuals’ interest and propensity toward sustainable food consumption is being observed. Several studies have been conducted investigating the motives of sustainable food consumption behavior, including well-known models with theoretical backgrounds, goal-directed perspectives, and nudge interventions. Among these, nudge interventions are mainly effective in shifting individuals toward consuming more sustainable foods. In this context, this study reviews the recent literature by exploring nudge interventions in the experimental setting for sustainable food consumption. In addition, it summarizes the implications of these studies to make suggestions to policymakers.