Consumer preferences for seafood attributes of wild-harvested and farm-raised products

With the increase in consumer interest in local foods and the expectation of the USDA to unveil standards for organic aquaculture U.S. shellfish and seaweed producers could anticipate changes in consumer choices with increased product information. This study investigates consumer preferences for product attributes of shellfish and seaweed salad focusing on production source (farm-raised, wild-harvested), certification status (organic, sustainably harvested, non-certified), and product origin (home state, U.S., imported). We analyze data from a nationwide online survey of coastal residents capturing consumption choices for oysters, clams, mussels, scallops, and seaweed salad. Analysis reveals that while consumers express preferences for wild-harvested products, the magnitude may differ for shellfish and seaweed salad products in comparison to previous findings regarding finfish preferences. Further, consumers are willing to pay more for products that bear a certification label or are from their home state. Results from this study suggest that seafood marketing strategies and development of labeling programs must account for the influence of multiple attributes on consumer choice.