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The “Land of Fires” Toxic Waste Scandal and Its Effect on Consumer Food Choices

Author

Listed:
  • Luigi Cembalo

    (Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy)

  • Daniela Caso

    (Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, 80133 Napoli NA, Italy)

  • Valentina Carfora

    (Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, 20123 Milano MI, Italy)

  • Francesco Caracciolo

    (Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy)

  • Alessia Lombardi

    (Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy)

  • Gianni Cicia

    (Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy)

Abstract

The present study focused on an environmental scandal that occurred in Italy, the Land of Fires toxic waste scandal, which caused consumer concerns related to the safety of food produced in the affected region, as well as massive market reduction in products associated with the polluted area. Based on a representative sample of Italian households ( N = 1134), this study applied an extended Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model to analyze consumer purchases of regional food products after this environmental hazard. In addition to attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control, the model included risk perception, trust, and actual purchases. Using a structural equation model, our results provided support to the hypothesis that consumer perceptions of risk negatively impacted their purchase behaviors and suggested that increasing Italians’ trust in government information could reduce their perceived risk and, consequently, increase their intention to purchase regional food.

Suggested Citation

  • Luigi Cembalo & Daniela Caso & Valentina Carfora & Francesco Caracciolo & Alessia Lombardi & Gianni Cicia, 2019. "The “Land of Fires” Toxic Waste Scandal and Its Effect on Consumer Food Choices," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(1), pages 1-14, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:16:y:2019:i:1:p:165-:d:195957
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