The role of fisheries and aquaculture products in ensuring sustainable and healthy food consumption in France

Abstract

The consumption of Fisheries and Aquaculture Products (FAP) can contribute to the transition of our food system towards greater sustainability. However, in order to implement effective food policies aimed at promoting sustainable FAP consumption, data on individual consumption behavior are lacking. Based on a consumer survey carried out on the French market in 2023, the aim of this article was to gain a deeper understanding of the current consumption patterns in place in France in order to identify potential levers for aligning French FAP consumption with public health and resource conservation objectives. Using an ordered probit model and Welch’s t-tests, our results show that French FAP consumption is currently driven by few people (the elderly, connoisseurs, and high-income households). In line with our findings, actions are proposed to guide French FAP consumers towards more sustainable behavior. In particular, we discuss the need to inform and educate consumers better. The promotion of local “under-utilized” species, the integration of environmental considerations into existing food policies, or even the need to exploit “out-of-home” consumption venues to promote sustainable FAP consumption among occasional consumers are discussed as interesting possibilities.