[Knowledge, attitude, and practice of the use of ready-to-eat vegetables among potential consumers of Palermo (Italy)]. / Conoscenze, attitudini e comportamenti di un campione di potenziali consumatori di insalate di IV gamma commercializzate a Palermo.

ABSTRACT

The knowledge, attitude, and practice toward the use of ready-to-eat vegetables were evaluated in a sample of 701 (388 women and 313 men) potential consumers in Palermo, by answering to an anonymous questionnaire handed out. Food safety perceptions and behaviors were analysed; in general, interviewed consumers who perceived higher risks exhibited safer food behaviors. There weren't considerable differences in the use of these salads between two sexes; 81.4% of respondents uses these products to save a lot of time, particularly the graduates attach importance to saving in time (p = 0.001), and only 34.4% is worrying about high price. Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation between better food safety knowledge and female sex; for example, compared with women, men reported to buy ready-to-eat salads on sale at room temperature and at temperature of refrigerator without distinction (p = 0.015). This study confirms the IV range salads meet modern consumer's requirements and also suggests the need of food safety educational strategies for targeted groups.