PHILADELPHIA -- Older consumers in a high-income bracket are the group most concerned about the freshness of prepared foods offered in supermarkets, according to a survey conducted by Consumer Research Network here.
d survey of 385 respondents in different geographical areas of the United States. The survey was concluded in December.
Doyle's assessment is based on responses to two statements that were part of the year-end survey that solicited opinions from consumers about supermarkets. These statements were the only ones that pertained to fresh, prepared foods.
To the statement, "[I] don't buy supermarket takeout because [I] don't feel that it's safe to eat after sitting in the case for hours," 33% of the total of 385 respondents agreed strongly, but 38% of those in the high-income bracket [family income of more than $70 thousand] agreed strongly and in the 49-plus age group, 43% agreed strongly with the statement.
To a related statement, "I worry about how long food stores hold onto items before tossing them," 33% of the total respondents agreed strongly. By contrast, 38% in the high-income group agreed strongly, and 38% in the 50-plus age group agreed strongly.
Doyle said there's a strong message in those figures for supermarkets. They need to make their "freshness policy" clear with signs in the department, in addition to having sell-by dates on the product package, she said.
