Consumers Who Understand The Nutritional Benefits Accept Marine-Derived Functional Foods

A study conducted by scientists at Ireland’s functional seafood research program found that while consumers were acquainted with the health benefits of eating fish and seafood, they were not familiar with “functional foods”. Once the nutritional science was explained, consumers were receptive to the idea of bioactive ingredients from seaweeds and crab shells being incorporated into foods such as bread and yogurt. Consumers viewed marine-derived functional foods and ingredients positively, as long as correct terminology and language were used to communicate the benefits. The researchers said marketing campaigns that apply “careful use of language” will play a major part in further consumer acceptance.