Consumer Concerns on Food Safety in Goat Meat Distribution Channels: Evidence from Bangladesh
Mohammad Khurshed Alam *
Research Institute for Rural Community and Life, Nagano, Japan and Agrani Bank PLC. Mymensingh, Bangladesh.
Keiko Yoshino
Department of Food Environment Economics, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Food safety is a growing concern in Bangladesh, particularly in the goat meat distribution channel, where supply chain risk and consumer distrust threaten market integrity. The safety of goat meat depends on various stakeholders, from producer farms to consumers’ tables.
Objectives: The study aims to (a) understand consumers’ preferences and consumption behavior of meat, mainly goat meat; (b) assess meat handling practices at butcher shops and consumer satisfaction with hygiene; (c) understand consumers’ concerns about safety in the goat meat distribution channel; and (d) assess opinions on willingness to pay for safer goat meat.
Materials and Methods: Data were collected from a total of 160 consumers (40 randomly selected from each upazila) through personal interviews using structured questionnaires from September to October 2019. Additionally, open discussions and observations were conducted to supplement the findings. Correlation analysis was performed to see the relationship between socio-demographic variables and food-related behaviors.
Results: Beef was preferred by 54% of the respondents, followed by goat meat (36%), but chicken was consumed most due to price and availability. Only 21% consumed goat meat during festivals. 88% consumers had idea about food poisoning, diarrheal disease may occur from unhygienic goat meat but only 49% respondent had knowledge about zoonotic disease. Consumers with higher income spent more and bought more goat meat. There was a positive correlation between education and food safety awareness including zoonotic disease knowledge. 48% of consumers reported seller malpractices (e.g., underweight, mixing fat etc.). While most consumers expressed a positive response to pay extra for safe goat meat, only 19% are prepared to pay an additional BDT 100 per kg. 96% demanded improved goat meat handling systems.
Discussion: Consumers in Bangladesh prefer goat meat and beef, but price drives chicken purchases. While concern of basic food safety risks, knowledge gaps exist. Moreover, distrust between sellers and buyers is prevalent.
Conclusion. Consumer awareness about the safety of goat meat is limited, despite concerns. Building trust between butchers and consumers is essential. Policymakers should promote food safety campaigns, enforce hygiene standards, and prioritize zoonotic education to align consumer concerns with a safer meat distribution system.
Keywords: Food safety, goat meat, consumer behavior, meat distribution