Exploring sufficiency in meat diets: are consumers ready for consumption corridors?

Abstract

This study highlights sufficiency principles and utilizes the consumption corridors (CC) framework to examine meat consumption. Conducted through a scenario-based experimental study with 901 participants representative of the Italian population, the research aimed to: explore perceptions of the CC concept, evaluate acceptance of a meat consumption reduction policy within CC standards, and identify factors influencing policy support. Findings showed moderate acceptance of the CC concept. The proposed policy received notable support (64 % of respondents), particularly for immediate implementation. Favourable individuals were predominantly altruistic, women, aged 55–70, with low meat consumption frequency and minimal association of meat with essential needs satisfaction. The study underscores the utility of the CC framework for designing and evaluating policies focused on reducing consumption. It offers valuable guidance for researchers and policymakers addressing Anthropocene challenges by fostering transitions toward sustainable consumption practices.