A systematic review of consumer studies applying the Food Technology Neophobia Scale: Lessons and applications

Novel food technologies can be a part of the solution to address global challenges and shift to sustainable food production and consumption patterns. However, innovations in the food industry are characterized by high market failures, for a novel food technology will only succeed in the market if it meets with consumer accep-tance. Insights into the acceptance or rejection of novel food technologies can be achieved using the food technology neophobia scale (FTNS), where food technology neophobia expresses consumer reluctance to try foods produced using novel technologies. To extend understanding of the FTNS to food professionals and food researchers, we conducted a systematic review of published studies that have used the scale since its develop-ment in 2008. This allows us to structure useful evidence from all published articles using the scale in their methodological approach. We share methodological findings and findings regarding socio-demographic variables and consumer behavior. We find the scale confirmed as a valid and reliable predictor of responses to novel food technologies. These findings should help professionals in the food industry and in food research identify pop-ulation segments that have more or less willingness to try novel products and so design strategies to avoid failure of food technology innovations in the market.