Garibay-Yayen Jessa Belle B, Willer David F
Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK.
Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK.
Appetite. 2025 Oct 1;214:108196. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2025.108196. Epub 2025 Jun 13.
Diversifying seafood consumption can improve human nutrition and support marine ecosystem health. However, UK consumers primarily consume a narrow range of seafood species, favoring fillets and other familiar cuts. This study explores patterns, barriers, and drivers influencing the consumption of underutilized seafood species and parts in the UK. An online survey (n = 303), consisting a convenience sample using social media recruitment, conducted over 60 days assessed consumer behaviour, motivations, and potential interventions. Results indicate that while quality is a key purchasing factor, uncertainties in preparation, lack of familiarity, and concerns about taste and texture hinder the consumption of lesser-known seafood parts. Most seafood is consumed at home. The internet serves as the primary information source, with the caveat that the online nature of the survey may bias responses. Respondents identified access to recipes, cooking instructions, and knowledge of health benefits as critical motivators for trying unfamiliar seafood. Findings suggest that targeted education and marketing efforts could increase dietary diversification, benefiting public health and sustainability. By addressing key barriers and promoting the nutritional and environmental advantages of underutilized seafood, the UK could enhance its seafood consumption practices.
多样化的海鲜消费可以改善人类营养状况并支持海洋生态系统健康。然而，英国消费者主要食用种类有限的海鲜，偏爱鱼片和其他常见的切块。本研究探讨了影响英国未充分利用的海鲜种类和部位消费的模式、障碍和驱动因素。一项在线调查（n = 303），通过社交媒体招募组成便利样本，在60天内进行，评估了消费者行为、动机和潜在干预措施。结果表明，虽然质量是关键的购买因素，但烹饪的不确定性、缺乏熟悉度以及对口味和质地的担忧阻碍了人们食用不太知名的海鲜部位。大多数海鲜是在家中食用的。互联网是主要的信息来源，但需注意调查的在线性质可能会使回答产生偏差。受访者认为获取食谱、烹饪说明以及对健康益处的了解是尝试不熟悉海鲜的关键动机。研究结果表明，有针对性的教育和营销努力可以增加饮食多样性，有益于公众健康和可持续性。通过消除关键障碍并宣传未充分利用海鲜的营养和环境优势，英国可以改善其海鲜消费习惯。
