Abstract
Eco-feed is an animal feed produced from the byproducts of food processing industry, and from food waste from restaurants. The use of eco-feed has gained greater attention as concerns about resource sustainability and Japan's low self-sufficiency rate in animal feed have increased. Although the use of eco-feed may help increase farm profits, it could also decrease the price of the meat relative to that of hogs raised on standard feed. This study analyzes consumer evaluations of pork from hogs raised on eco-feed using a stated preference method. The eco-feed-fed pork was negatively evaluated by some consumers, especially those who were reluctant to try it. On the contrary, the pork received positive evaluations from those who stated they were interested in recycling food, and from people with high incomes. To enhance the use of eco-feed at farm level, it is necessary to inform consumers that the quality of eco-feed is ensured and the use of eco-feed will help Japan achieve a sustainable society.
