Sociodemographic determinants of local food consumption: A case study of Serbia

Aleksandra Pavlis; Jelena Tepavčević; Svetlana Vukosav; Milan Bradić; Vuk Garača

doi:10.71159/bizinfo260011P

Authors

Aleksandra Pavlis University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Science, Department of Geography, Tourism and Hotel Management, Serbia
Jelena Tepavčević University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Science, Department of Geography, Tourism and Hotel Management, Serbia
Svetlana Vukosav University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Science, Department of Geography, Tourism and Hotel Management, Serbia
Milan Bradić University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Science, Department of Geography, Tourism and Hotel Management, Serbia
Vuk Garača University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Science, Department of Geography, Tourism and Hotel Management, Serbia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71159/bizinfo260011P

Keywords:

local food, purchase, eco behavior, sociodemographic characteristics

Abstract

Local food occupies an important place in the framework of sustainable development and preservation of the cultural identity of communities. It includes food products that originate from the immediate environment and reflect the special agroecological, social, and cultural characteristics of the region. Encouraging the consumption of local food contributes to reducing the ecological footprint through shorter supply chains and reduced emissions of harmful gases. At the same time, local food production and consumption strengthen the local economy, encourage social cohesion, and improve the quality of life among the population. In this way, local food becomes a key element in the development of sustainable food systems and the creation of modern public nutrition policies. The primary objective of the research presented in this paper is to explore the extent to which sociodemographic characteristics of respondents influence their preferences for purchasing local food, as well as their general eco-behaviors and attitudes. The study was conducted on a sample of 128 respondents, with data collected through an online survey administered between June and August 2025. The results showed differences in green attitudes among different age groups as well as differences in the level of environmental concern among respondents of different education levels. Significant effects of gender, place of residence, and income were not confirmed. The research provides a more profound understanding of the factors that shape environmentally responsible consumption when it comes to sociodemographic factors.

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