10년새 농식품 소비층 젊어지고 건강식품 더 많이 찾았다
The makeup of Korean society has seen major changes in recent decades.
There are now more people living alone, and they tend to buy groceries that require less cooking... and that come in smaller portions.
Kim Cheong-ah explains.
Buying smaller portions more often and on a regular basis - that's the latest trend among shoppers.
According to a survey conducted on one-thousand-four-hundred households over the last 10 years, consumers in their 20s and 30s have become the biggest purchasers of food products in South Korea.
This comes as the number of one-person households has greatly increased in the nation over the last ten years...and with an aging population.
"Since our family is small, instead of cooking in large amounts I like that I can buy products packaged in smaller portions so I have no leftovers and can consume it right away."
Demand for instant rice has more than doubled...particularly among with those in their 20s and 30s who are buying more ready-made 'banchan', or side dishes, as well as kimchi.
People are also spending less time at supermarkets with the ability to order groceries online.
"I buy a lot of fresh produce because I have a child. I purchase a lot of things online as now they deliver on the same day or even early in the morning."
While convenience is one factor behind a food product be popular, consumers also look to safety and the health benefits before making their selection.
Consumption of healthier produce such as blueberries, nuts and porridges has spiked by more than 30-percent over the last 10 years, with interest higher among the older generations.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also changed consumption patterns. The recent government emergency relief fund has contributed to an increase in food purchases at local, traditional markets and online retailers...while shopping at large franchise supermarkets has decreased.
Also with the implementation of social distancing measures, eating at home is now preferred to dining out...leading to people wanting products with a longer a shelf life.
Kim Cheong-ah, Arirang News.
