Consumer attitudes toward egg consumption, food safety, and animal welfare

Marija Pajić; Katarina Pajić; Đorđe Jovanović; Tihomir Novaković; Marko Pajić

doi:10.18485/meattech.2025.66.3.88

Marija Pajić University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9756-2461
Katarina Pajić University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1478-3582
Đorđe Jovanović University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Novi Sad, Serbia
Tihomir Novaković University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8405-3403
Marko Pajić Scientific Veterinary Institute of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4221-2602

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18485/meattech.2025.66.3.88

Keywords: eggs, consumer attitudes, food safety, laying hen welfare, Zrenjanin, Serbia

Abstract

Hen eggs are a common component of the human diet, and the egg industry today represents an important branch of animal husbandry. Consumer preferences regarding egg characteristics are evolving, with increasing attention placed on production conditions and laying hen welfare, while issues of food safety are often less clearly understood. In addition, the impact of egg consumption on human health continues to be questioned. The aim of this study was to assess consumer attitudes in the municipality of Zrenjanin, Serbia, with a focus on factors influencing egg purchasing decisions. Respondents emphasized production practices and animal welfare, whereas the physical characteristics of eggs were considered less important. Eggs were generally perceived as healthy food, and most consumers did not associate their consumption with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, many respondents showed limited understanding of the concept of egg safety. These findings underline the importance of strengthening consumer education and awareness regarding both the benefits and potential risks of egg consumption.