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  4. The effects of information disclosure and labeling on demand for plant-based meat alternatives: Evidence from retail scanner data

The effects of information disclosure and labeling on demand for plant-based meat alternatives: Evidence from retail scanner data

File(s)
Wang_cornell_0058O_12184.pdf (524.84 KB)
No Access Until
2026-09-03
Permanent Link(s)
https://doi.org/10.7298/vyrf-be10
https://hdl.handle.net/1813/116342
Collections
Cornell Theses and Dissertations
Author
Wang, Haoran
Abstract

This study examines the impact of different labeling claims and information provision on the price, total sales, and quantity sold of plant-based meat alternatives (PBMA) products. Specifically, we analyze how specific labeling terms and certifications interact with information about the products' environmental, health, and ethical claims to affect consumer purchase decisions. The findings indicate that "plant-based" and "protein" labels are associated with higher demand and sales, while "meat substitute" labels correlate with higher prices but lower sales volume. Using a structural demand model, I estimate the different effects of attributes on demand and find that low-calorie claims and meat substitutes have the strongest positive impact on product choice. In contrast, protein content has a significant negative impact on choice. The random coefficients logit model refined our previous demand estimations. Additionally, we estimate the cross-price elasticities and own-price elasticities of the plant-based products, as well as related metrics such as marginal cost, markup ratio, and diversion ratios. These results have important implications for current and proposed PBMA marketing policies and labeling legislation. Specifically, restricting the use of the word "meat" in plant-based product labeling could significantly impact the demand for these products. By understanding how various labeling claims and information provision influence consumer behavior, policymakers and marketers can make more informed decisions that support the growth and acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives.

Description
49 pages
Date Issued
2024-08
Committee Chair
Adalja, Aaron
Committee Member
Rickard, Bradley
Degree Discipline
Applied Economics and Management
Degree Name
M.S., Applied Economics and Management
Degree Level
Master of Science
Type
dissertation or thesis
Link(s) to Catalog Record
https://newcatalog.library.cornell.edu/catalog/16611991

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