Ethical concern or religious reason? A study of factors influencing vegetarian food consumption in Hong Kong

Abstract

The rise of vegetarian and vegan diets in the West is influencing the consumer food sector. There are many reasons including health-consciousness, religion or ethical concerns about animal rights and environmental protection. This study aims to understand the relationship between local residents' daily food choice decisions and their intention to consume vegetarian food in the future. The results of exploratory factor analysis revealed 12 food choice factors. Among them, regression analysis indicated five important predictors that exert influences on such behavioural intention. They are ethical concern, togetherness, natural content, price and convenience. Implications for academics, tourism policymakers, and hotel and restaurant operators are discussed.