EventsThe 7th International Electronic Conference on Foods
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This submission belongs to the session B. Nutritional & Functional Foods of the event The 7th International Electronic Conference on Foods
Published date
23 Oct, 2026
Academic Editor
author-avatarJuana Fernández López
Citation
Seham Al Raish, Abdelghafar M. Abu-Elsaoud, Khaled A. El-Tarabily, Synan F. AbuQamar, Razan S. Almasri, Alaa S. Bedir, Exploring Determinants of Organic Food Consumption in the UAE: Implications for Sustainable Food Systems, in Proceedings of The 7th International Electronic Conference on Foods, 28 October–30 October 2026, MDPI: Basel, Switzerland
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Exploring Determinants of Organic Food Consumption in the UAE: Implications for Sustainable Food Systems

Seham Al Raish 1,2
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Abdelghafar M. Abu-Elsaoud 3
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Khaled A. El-Tarabily 1
Synan F. AbuQamar 1
Razan S. Almasri 4
Alaa S. Bedir 4
1. Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates
2. Environmental Health and Safety Program, College of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
3. Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, 11623, Saudi Arabia
4. Department of Nutrition, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates
Abstract

Introduction

The global demand for organic food has expanded significantly due to increasing consumer awareness of health, environmental sustainability, and food safety concerns. Despite this growth, organic food markets in emerging sectors such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remain relatively underdeveloped. Understanding the determinants of organic food consumption is essential for supporting sustainable food systems and informed consumer choices.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 408 adult residents in the UAE to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to organic food consumption. The questionnaire evaluated sociodemographic characteristics alongside perceptions of health benefits, environmental impact, certification awareness, and purchasing behavior. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, correlation analysis, and regression modeling, were performed to examine associations between variables.

Results and Discussion

Findings indicate that health considerations, food safety concerns, and environmental awareness are key motivators driving organic food purchasing decisions. Younger and more highly educated respondents demonstrated greater awareness and more favorable attitudes toward organic food. However, premium pricing, limited product availability, and uncertainty regarding certification remain significant barriers to consistent consumption. The mean knowledge score (1.18 ± 0.55) reflected moderate awareness levels. A positive association was observed between knowledge, attitudes, and reported purchasing practices, supporting the applicability of the KAP framework in explaining consumer behavior.

Conclusions

The study highlights the importance of educational initiatives, policy support, and improved market accessibility to strengthen organic food adoption in the UAE. Enhancing consumer trust and affordability may contribute to advancing sustainable food consumption patterns and supporting future food system transitions.

Keywords
Organic food consumption
Sustainable diets
Green consumerism
Emerging food markets
Environmental awareness
Purchase intention
Food certification trust
Sustainable consumption behavior
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