Özet:

In developing sustainable production and consumption models based on animal welfare, there is a need to determine the commercialization capacity of animal welfare-friendly products. This study was carried out to examine the cognitive, affective, and behavioural sub-dimensions of the West Aegean region consumers' attitudes towards animal welfare and determine the effects of the demographic and socio-economic profile of the consumers on their animal welfare attitudes. The Animal Welfare Attitude scale was applied to 415 consumers in İzmir and Aydın. Consumers' attitudes towards animal welfare were positive, most associated with the cognitive and affective dimensions. However, it was comprehended that the knowledge and awareness of the consumers about the animal food production chain were insufficient. Some demographic and socio-economic factors significantly affected respondents' attitudes toward animal welfare and their willingness to pay more for animal welfare-friendly products. Gender, education level, monthly income, and companion animal ownership significantly affected consumers' attitudes toward animal welfare. It has been determined that as the attitude toward animal welfare rises, consumers' willingness to purchase animal welfare-friendly food products also increases. It was concluded that the consumers of the West Aegean Region have a positive attitude and motivation to support the development of national sustainable production and consumption models based on animal welfare.

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