Consumer perceptions, consumption behaviour, and policy implications for sustainable diets : the case of plant-based milk alternatives in Delhi | |
| Author | Unnikrishnan, Athira |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.FIBNH-26-06 |
| Subject(s) | Consumer behavior--India Milk plants--India Reducing diets--India |
| Note | A Thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | The rapid expansion of plant-based milk alternatives (PBMAs) across the world has been the consequence of growing cases of lactose intolerance and milk protein allergy. However, even with a promising growth potential, the consumer adoption of PBMAs in India remains limited. Existing literature has extensively focused on the nutritional, technological, and sensory aspects of PBMAs, while limited research has explored the factors influencing consumer acceptance, perception, and adoption behavior in the Indian market, specifically in the Delhi region. The primary goal of this study is about analysing consumer perceptions and their attitudes towards PBMAs, studying the difference between purchase intention and actual consumption behaviour and integrating these insights within the current regulatory environment to generate data-driven recommendations that can help reduce behavioral hurdles and support the increased uptake of PBMAs. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed involving 150 participants. Structured questionnaire surveys via Google Forms were employed to collect data and the responses were statistically analysed using IBM SPSS Version 27. The results indicated strong respondent agreement regarding PBMAs as healthier alternatives, supporting lactose intolerance management and being an ecofriendly alternative. Significant differences existed in the Intention-Behavior Gap (IBG) with short-term purchase intention being moderate to high, while the routine behavioural integration being comparatively lower. It was observed that consumer behavior is shaped by perceived control in addition to social influence, with participants showing openness to awareness efforts while also being strongly influenced by cost in their purchasing decisions. Thus, this study provides insights on how consumer attitudes and behaviour can help in restructuring the policy arena which can encourage further consumer willingness to integrate PBMAs as a part of their lifestyle. |
| Year | 2026 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | Faculty of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (2026) |
| Department | Other Field of Studies (No Department) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology (FEBT)/Former code name = FB |
| Chairperson(s) | Anal, Anil Kumar; |
| Examination Committee(s) | Tsusaka, Takuji W.;Darniadi, Sandi; |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | AIT Scholarship; |
| Degree | Thesis (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2026 |
 | |