Quality is the most important criterion in a consumer’s decision to purchase a product. This was one of the findings of a survey on food safety conducted for the EU Commission (www.gesis.org) in 25 member countries. Aspects like price, appearance and flavor take second place. The fact that customer demands regarding product quality are increasing is further confirmed by the Consumer Research Association (GfK) (www.gfk.com): the organization says since 2005 price sensitivity has been decreasing in relation to quality demands for the first time in years. cbi:///cms/48698

There is a trend toward healthy diets. A large proportion of consumers make sure they buy high-quality, healthy products when shopping. In Germany, this is confirmed by the Market and Advertising Media study, carried out by the Allensbach Institute (www.awa-online.de *). The study examines the behavior of Germany’s consumers age 14 years or older: since 2005, more and more people pursue healthy living habits, according to the findings. Today, one in three residents of Germany tries to live healthily. In a survey by the market research institute AC Nielsen (www.acnielsen.de *), almost half of respondents said healthy eating habits were important to them. cbi:///cms/48709

For many years already, METRO GROUP has been committed to the issue of healthy nutrition and exercise. In addition to an Internet portal operated by Real (www.bewusst-einkaufen-gesund-leben.de *) the sales brands active in food retail offer a new nutrition value labeling on private label products, for example. Moreover, METRO GROUP offers a special service where a team of experts answers consumer questions regarding a balanced lifestyle and give advice on healthy nutrition and more exercise. cbi:///cms/49106

Detailed information about the nutrition values – such as sugar and fat – are shown on the back of the package. In addition, flyers and displays in the stores provide extensive information about the nutrition labeling system. cbi:///cms/49128