A research on the determination of factors affecting the consumption of organic foods: The case of Adana

Organic food consumption is rapidly spreading in our country, as it is worldwide. This study aims to determine the attitudes of consumers in the city center of Adana towards organic products and the factors influencing their purchasing behavior. Data obtained from a survey conducted with selected individuals in the city center of Adana were used as the material for the research. The study includes a detailed analysis of the participants' demographic characteristics and sheds light on the impact of variables such as gender, age, income, marital status, and occupation. Professionally, individuals working in the education sector and food industry professionals exhibit significant effects on organic food concerns. According to the study results, consumers' demographic characteristics, such as age, gender, marital status, and income, play a significant role in shaping their preferences and behaviors regarding organic food. While younger individuals exhibit a greater inclination towards organic food consumption, gender and marital status show minimal differences in consumer attitudes. However, income levels emerge as a significant determinant, posing a barrier to widespread adoption of organic foods due to cost concerns. The findings reveal the critical roles of demographic, knowledge and economic factors, as well as personal preferences and lifestyle, in shaping attitudes towards organic food. It was determined that 11.5% of the consumers who stated that they consumed organic products consumed the fresh fruit and vegetables product group, followed by eggs (11.3%), olive oil (10.9%), dairy products (8.9%) and honey (8.7%). The findings obtained as a result of this research are thought to be important in terms of revealing consumers' attitudes towards organic products in Adana and determining in detail the factors affecting their preferences for consuming organic products.