Consumer attitudes toward egg consumption, food safety, and animal welfare

Abstract

Hen eggs are a common component of the human diet, and the egg industry today represents an important branch of animal husbandry. Consumer preferences regarding egg characteristics are evolving, with increasing attention placed on production conditions and laying hen welfare, while issues of food safety are often less clearly understood. In addition, the impact of egg consumption on human health continues to be questioned. The aim of this study was to assess consumer attitudes in the municipality of Zrenjanin, Serbia, with a focus on factors influencing egg purchasing decisions. Respondents emphasized production practices and animal welfare, whereas the physical characteristics of eggs were considered less important. Eggs were generally perceived as healthy food, and most consumers did not associate their consumption with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, many respondents showed limited understanding of the concept of egg safety. These findings underline the importance of strengthening consumer education and awareness regarding both the benefits and potential risks of egg consumption.