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. 2021 Oct:116:992-1001.
doi: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.09.005. Epub 2021 Sep 11.

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on food habits and perceptions: A study with Brazilians

Jessica Ferreira Rodrigues  1 , Marcus Túlio Cunha Dos Santos Filho  1 , Lorena Eduarda Aparecida de Oliveira  1 , Ingrid Brandemburg Siman  1 , Alessandra de Fátima Barcelos  1 , Gustavo Luis de Paiva Anciens Ramos  2   3 , Erick Almeida Esmerino  3 , Adriano Gomes da Cruz  2 , Rhaí André Arriel  4
Affiliations

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on food habits and perceptions: A study with Brazilians

Jessica Ferreira Rodrigues et al. Trends Food Sci Technol. 2021 Oct.

Abstract

Background: Following the COVID-19 pandemic (caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus) at the beginning of 2020, containment measures have been taken by different countries around the globe. Citizens were forced to stay in quarantine, affecting their food consumption habits and food sector. These impacts have not yet been properly understood. Thus, it is important to describe the consequences of COVID-19 on food consumption habits globally, especially in the context of developing countries, such as Brazil.

Scope and approach: In this study, the Brazilian's food consumption habits and perceptions during the COVID-19 pandemic were assessed, highlighting the food consumption changes and selection of food products. Consumer perceptions about issues related to food safety and food marketing were also assessed. An online survey was performed and data were analyzed by descriptive analysis; independence and per cell chi-square test; and factor analysis.

Key findings and conclusions: Brazilians perceptions indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic context (assessed in May 2020) changed their food consumption and purchase. Respondents stated that they are eating and buying a greater amount of food, indicating a perception of a less healthy diet, mainly by women. On other hand, they are prioritizing homemade preparations and fresh food. Moreover, they reduced their shopping trips to markets and are starting to use delivery services and shopping platforms. Basic products of animal, vegetable, and bakery origin are being preferred during this period, in addition to economical packaging and products. Brazilians also indicated that they are more concerned with food safety and hygienic practices. However, at a time when global health is threatened, government agencies must create measures that ensure the food supply and consumer's awareness, in order to guarantee the country's food security during the current crisis.

Keywords: Brazil; Coronavirus; Food habits; Food marketing; Food safety.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Food consumption changes noticed by Brazilians during the COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine context.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Purchase prioritization of different food categories during the quarantine context.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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