September 19, 2023 - Alissa Nolden, Ph.D.

Many reports claim that consumers demand sustainable food options, yet there is limited evidence that this is the case. In 2023, US adult consumers report sustainability following behind taste, price, and health when it comes to drivers of food choice. With a long-term goal of improving the sustainability of the agricultural food supply, the food industry is making great strides to offer various sustainable options. There must be an increase in our understanding of consumers' motivation and uncertainty regarding sustainable foods. Our research focuses on examining both intrinsic (product-related) and extrinsic (person-related) factors that drive and deter consumers from consuming plant-based foods. Considering the product itself and consumers' perspective will help to improve the development of new products and identify opportunities to motivate and educate consumers on the importance of adopting a sustainable diet.

Speaker Biography
Alissa Nolden is an Assistant Professor at The University of Massachusetts, Amherst in the Department of Food Science who works with her colleagues and students to enhance the field of food science and human health. Alissa believes understanding factors influencing sensory perception and taste preferences is important in increasing consumption and creating delicious, healthful, and sustainable foods. She has conducted consumer surveys and supported collaborative projects regarding plant-based foods to understand consumers’ motivation to adopt a diet that includes plant-based products, focusing on sensory attributes and personality factors associated with liking and intake.