Credence Signals in Beef Consumption: The Strategic Role of the “100% Autochthonous Breed” Label in Spain

This study evaluates the perceived value of the “100% Autochthonous Breed” label in beef purchasing decisions, comparing its influence with two well-established official certifications: organic and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). A face-to-face survey was conducted with 900 consumers across...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Miguel A. Cantarero-Aparicio, José Manuel Perea, Alfonso Carbonero, Jennifer Claros-Zafra, Manuel Luque, Elena Angón
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-07-01
Series:Foods
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/14/14/2411
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Summary:This study evaluates the perceived value of the “100% Autochthonous Breed” label in beef purchasing decisions, comparing its influence with two well-established official certifications: organic and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). A face-to-face survey was conducted with 900 consumers across Spain, using a choice-based conjoint experiment and hierarchical cluster analysis. The results indicate that although price is the primary determinant at the aggregate level, segmentation revealed distinct consumer profiles for whom the “100% Autochthonous Breed” label generated higher utility than other attributes. Specifically, four clusters were identified: Group I (18.6%) preferred the organic label; Group II (46.6%) prioritized low price; Group III (22.9%) valued the combination of PGI and the autochthonous breed label; and Group IV (11.9%) showed a preference for high-priced products featuring the “100% Autochthonous Breed” label. The findings highlight the strategic potential of this certification as a differentiation tool for sustainable, extensive, and territorially embedded livestock systems.
ISSN:2304-8158