SAUDI ARABIA CONSUMERS’ AWARENESS ABOUT LEGAL PROTECTION ON FOOD QUALITY

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate consumers' awareness about their legal rights and protection in relation to food safety in Saudi Arabia. A quantitative approach was employed, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the responses and identify the main factors influencing consumers' awareness. The sample consisted of 148 respondents, representing diverse demographics in terms of age, nationality, place of residence, gender, academic qualifications, employment, and monthly income levels. The findings revealed varying levels of awareness among consumers, with some items showing higher agreement scores indicating greater awareness, while others had lower scores indicating a lack of awareness. The factors influencing consumers' awareness included food labeling, knowledge of food safety regulations, and the availability of information about rights and protection. The study contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on consumers' awareness levels and providing insights into the factors that can be targeted to enhance awareness and ensure food safety. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to improve consumer education and awareness programs, enhance food labeling practices, and strengthen the enforcement of food safety regulations. Further research is suggested to explore regional variations, conduct qualitative studies, and assess the impact of interventions on consumer behavior and empowerment. These efforts can contribute to the development of effective strategies and policies to safeguard consumer rights and enhance food safety in Saudi Arabia.