Detecting the factors affecting the food safety perception in the individuals

In recent years, the growth and diversity in the food sector has led to the need for consumers and producers to be more conscious and sensitive about this issue. Consequently, food safety and food security have become more important. The aim of this study was to determine the factors affecting the food safety perception of individuals in Antalya Province. These factors were measured by the responses of 42 questionnaires. In questionnaires, individuals' habits of consumption, the criteria they have taken into consideration while purchasing food, the factors they are affected, the levels of consciousness about food safety and risks in food safety, etc. subjects have been studied. According to the findings of the study, 82.4% of the individuals heard the concept of food safety, 51.9% of them knew the meaning of the concept of food safety, 48.9% of the individuals think the food they are consuming is sometimes safe. In the study, 57.3% of individuals stated that human health was not taken into consideration when food was produced and sold. When we look at the criteria that individuals pay attention while shopping for food, it is seen that criteria that are very important for individuals are, the production and consumption history and the freshness of the products. In addition, individuals think that food producers are not adequately audited by supervisory agencies, legislation is incomplete, and penalties are not deterrent. It appears that individuals are willing to pay more for safe food, taking food safety, into consideration and willing to overpay 5-10% for these products for a food product as purchase behavior.