Organic Premiums and Market Access: Consumer Trust, Economic Equity, and Policy Solutions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61978/sativa.v1i3.1430Keywords:
Willingness To Pay, Organic Food, Price Premium, Sustainability Labels, Consumer Trust, Affordability, Policy InterventionsAbstract
This study explores consumer willingness to pay (WTP) for organic food products, synthesizing global data from meta-analyses, discrete choice experiments (DCEs), and valuation methods. Organic products are increasingly favored for their health, environmental, and ethical benefits, yet price premiums present a barrier to widespread adoption. The study identifies average WTP premiums ranging from 20% to 60%, with dairy and fresh produce attracting the highest values. Key findings show that trust in organic certification significantly boosts WTP, while affordability limits access for lower-income consumers. Methodological biases, especially in hypothetical survey methods, are discussed alongside strategies to improve reliability, including the use of behavioral and experimental techniques. Policy interventions such as producer subsidies, consumer education, and improved labeling are recommended to foster a more inclusive organic food market.
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