KNOWLEDGE AND DIETARY PRACTICES ON PROBIOTIC DAIRY PRODUCTS AMONG SELECTED FILIPINOS IN ORIENTAL MINDORO, PHILIPPINES

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the awareness, behavior, and perception toward probiotic dairy products among Filipino consumers in Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. Using convenience sampling, the study surveyed a total of 367 milk consumers. The results showed that the majority of the participants were completely aware of the concept of probiotics. Furthermore, most of them consumed probiotic yogurt and yogurt drinks, citing supermarkets as their preferred place for purchasing these products. The study also revealed that consumers prioritized flavor and aroma over the appearance and mouthfeel of probiotic dairy products. Health benefits, nutritive value, and sensory quality were the main factors considered by consumers when purchasing such products. Most participants perceived probiotic dairy products as expensive but also viewed them as safer, healthier, more nutritious, and of better sensory quality compared to regular dairy products. Consequently, more than half of the respondents expressed a willingness to incorporate probiotic dairy products into their regular diet. Additionally, the study found that consumer perceptions of probiotic dairy products—excluding those related to product safety—were associated with respondents’ sociodemographic and health profiles. The findings of this study could help local manufacturers develop effective marketing strategies that align with the consumption and purchase behaviors of consumers.