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Consumer Health Perceptions of Cows' Milk and Plant‐Based Milk Alternatives

Author

Listed:
  • Danielle M. Kaminski
  • Wei Yang
  • Rodolfo M. Nayga

Abstract

This study used a best‐worst scale experiment to reveal consumers' beliefs about the healthiness of selected cows' milk and plant‐based milk products based on their nutrition panels. We find that while there is heterogeneity in health perceptions, consumers overwhelmingly select skim milk as the healthiest milk product. Additionally, the cows' milk nutrition panels are typically ranked healthier than the plant‐based milk products. Finally, we also conducted an additional intent‐to‐purchase experiment and find that there are significant differences in the preference shares of healthiness perceptions and intent to purchase, meaning that consumers consider more than just health in their purchase decisions.

Suggested Citation

  • Danielle M. Kaminski & Wei Yang & Rodolfo M. Nayga, 2026. "Consumer Health Perceptions of Cows' Milk and Plant‐Based Milk Alternatives," Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 48(3), pages 797-809, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:apecpp:v:48:y:2026:i:3:p:797-809
    DOI: 10.1002/aepp.70074
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Madeline Estell & Jaimee Hughes & Sara Grafenauer, 2021. "Plant Protein and Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: Consumer and Nutrition Professional Attitudes and Perceptions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(3), pages 1-18, February.
    2. Osman GULSEVEN & Michael WOHLGENANT, 2017. "What are the factors affecting the consumers' milk choices?," Agricultural Economics, Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences, vol. 63(6), pages 271-282.
    3. Train,Kenneth E., 2009. "Discrete Choice Methods with Simulation," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521747387, June.
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