Consumer perspectives: take-out packaging and food safety

Purpose - A consumer focus group was conducted in West Texas, to discuss consumer opinion about desired features in take-out containers or packaging, and perceptions related to food safety practices. Findings - The results of this qualitative case study indicated that the majority of take-out food was purchased for personal consumption, and that location, convenience and time are the primary factors influencing the decision for purchase. The main features considered desirable in take-out containers were these: the ability to insulate food, to contain product without spillage, and to keep individual foods separate within the same package. Practical implications - As the desirability for take-out food continues to increase, risks emerge surrounding the lack of handling instructions on most take-out packaging, and the scarcity of consumer food safety knowledge. Though most participants in this study claimed to return home quickly with take-out food after purchase, and consume the food as soon as possible, a good number admitted to not being as knowledgeable about food safety and handling as they would like. Research limitations/implications - Though data were collected from a diverse group of panelists, the small scope of this research could not be said to represent the USA as a whole. Future studies would need to include multiple focus group studies in metropolitan regions across the nation. Originality/value - The paper adds to the body of knowledge on take-out food and customer attitudes to food safety.