This study was performed to survey the recognition of nutrition labeling and agricultural product brands from vegetable farmers in order to draw out valuable suggestions for enhancing the strength of brand commodities in Korean markets. Questionnaires...
This study was performed to survey the recognition of nutrition labeling and agricultural product brands from vegetable farmers in order to draw out valuable suggestions for enhancing the strength of brand commodities in Korean markets. Questionnaires were given to the vegetable farmers who were trainees at Nonghyup Ansung Agricultural Training Institute. Percentile requency distribution was used for the descriptive analysis and the correlation between nutrition labeling and brands among famers was evaluated by chi-square test. The famers expressed high concerns on both nutritional values and nutrient contents of vegetables, but were not active to publicize their nutritional values because of the lack of knowledge for foods and nutrition related to their products. They agreed that the nutrition labeling would be effective on the sales of products but requested proper assistance such as professional advice, proper education, financial supports, etc. They were well recognized the importance of brands and the necessities for the development of their own brands and/or symbol as well as the improvement of taste and nutrition in order to distinct their product from others. They also pointed out the brand as a major factor to marketing their products and intended to have own brands although few farmers had own brands. The income levels were positively correlated to the nutrition and brand recognition. Most of those with higher income already had their own brands and used nutritional information to marketing. These results suggest that for the production and sales of high valuable agricultural commodities, it is necessary for farmers to have information and knowledge of nutrition and brands. This will eventually provide the appropriate information regarding nutritional values of agricultural brand products to the consumers.