Abstract: Nomenclature bans for plant-based foods are under discussion in various countries. These bans restrict the use of terms like 'cheese'—traditionally associated with animal products—on the grounds that such terminology confuses consumers, despite the lack of empirical evidence backing these claims. Rigorous research is crucial to challenge these restrictions, as they could hinder the growth of the plant-based food industry. While vegan labels (e.g., the V-label) may mitigate confusion, there is a significant lack of empirical research on their effects on consumer understanding.

Using a randomized online experiment, this study aims to understand how different labeling practices affect consumer confusion regarding plant-based cheese alternatives in Turkiye, where stringent regulations have been introduced. It will also explore second-order beliefs by examining how accurately consumers predict others' misunderstandings. Additionally, the research will evaluate how labeling practices influence perceptions of key product attributes (e.g., nutritional value) and perceived similarities to animal-based cheese (e.g., sensory attributes, price).

Abstract: Which behavioral interventions are most effective in reducing meat consumption? Hundreds of randomized-controlled trials (RCT’s) have addressed this question, testing different interventions with different methods in different contexts. Meta-analyses can help to synthesize research findings, but they often focus on one intervention type and only provide a brief snapshot of the quickly accumulating evidence base. Actionable insights often remain difficult to extract.

To address these problems, we are proposing to build LIME, an online Library of Interventions for Meat Elimination. LIME is tailored to aid advocates, policy makers, and researchers in identifying and synthesizing the evidence relevant for a specific goal. Investigators aim to build an extensive databank of all RCTs aimed at changing meat consumption, which will be updated regularly. Users will be able to use various filters, such as country, type of outcome measure, the content, medium, or mechanism of the intervention. Additionally, various analysis tools will allow users to summarize identified studies and meta-analyze the effectiveness of interventions.

Abstract: Our research aims to develop more effective messaging strategies to encourage a shift towards plant-based diets. We will develop a survey using existing validated scales to measure factors such as dietary motivations, values, psychographics, and information sources. The survey will be administered to a large, representative UK sample, and the data will be analysed to identify distinct groups based on shared motivations, values, and perspectives on food choices. We will then test whether messages tailored to these segments are more effective in promoting dietary change than generic messaging.

Abstract: Environmental concerns are posing risks to existing practices followed in agriculture. With increasing temperature variations, physical risks of environmental disasters and deteriorating agricultural yield, sustainable agriculture policy appears to be the only promising solution to address food security with a promise of environmental balance. However, the transition path towards sustainable agriculture requires long term planning with major investments towards new technologies. These investments require funding from financial institutions and government. However, the credit access remains moderate in the initial years of transition due to lack of productivity and greater investment requirements. This project is aimed at analyzing the role of financial inter-mediation in facilitating the transition process. More specifically, the project aims to develop a micro-foundation analytical model which will help businesses to plan their path towards sustainable agriculture practices in medium and long term. The model will provide different alternative transition paths scenario analysis with an emphasis on the availability of financing from financial institutions and government.