Changes in Food Consumption of Polish Households in the 21st Century

Purpose: The main aim of the paper is to present the directions of changes in consumer’s behaviour and their consequences for food consumption in Poland. Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper is based on the results of econometric analysis and Target Group Index research, gathered a wide range of information. Taking into consideration complexity research it is necessary to use various methods, including both qualitative and quantitative aspect, especially econometric discrimination methods of finite sets, and one-source studies (TGI). Findings: The results of research touched the satisfaction of nutritional needs in Poland in 2003-2019 were presented. The findings of the presented study point to the fact that the consumption behaviour of Poles is significantly differentiated by their level of income. In the case of households with low incomes, the demand for food is relatively high, while the situation in households with relatively high incomes is different. The latter exhibit low consumption sensitivity in relation to the increase in their income. There is also a considerable differentiation in terms of shaping the consumption of food products depending on product categories. In relation to absolutely basic products, the author observed a relatively small buyers’ response to a change in their income, which could be regarded as an increase in consumption. However, the demand for products with a higher degree of food processing is still at a relatively high level. Practical Implications: The paper provides the results of research that help food producers and marketers to determine pricing policies and supply planning in relation to food consumer’s demand. Originality/Value: The paper presents a new methodological approach for estimating the level of saturation of food needs based on the results of econometric analysis and Target Group Index research.