Perfil dos consumidores de alimentos e bebidas em serviços de alimentação da cidade de Itaqui/RS

Abstract

The determining attributes in choosing the place to eat may vary among different consumers. In this context, the present study aimed to characterize the profile of of food and beverages consumers in food services in the city of Itaqui/RS, regarding socioeconomic issues, attributes that determine the choice of food service, the hygiene factors observed and their understanding of Food Safety and Foodborne Illness (DTAs). We interviewed 110 consumers who performed meals outside the home ate meals out of the home, randomly approached in large-flow places in the central area of the city of Itaqui/RS. A questionnaire containing 17 questions was used as a data collection instrument. Most of the interviewees were female, aged between 30 and 39 years, individual income of 0 to 2 minimum wages with complete higher education. The determining attributes for the establishment's choice were local hygiene, flavor and meal price. Among the selection factors related to hygiene, hygiene of the bathroom, cleaning of the establishment and hygiene of employees were the most cited. It was observed that the consumer is more aware of the importance of hygienic-sanitary quality of food, since 90% of the interviewees have some knowledge of the concept of DTAs and safe foods and consider hygiene related factors to select the food service.