The present set of studies developed and tested the Food Disgust Picture Scale (FDPS). This is a tool for the assessment of food disgust sensitivity that will measure disgust and predict possible reactions. This eight-picture tool can be used in complement to or as a replacement for currently available text-based measures. In an exploratory Study 1 (N = 57), we constructed a scale consisting of eight pictures. Most of them were taken from validated picture databases. They proved powerful in the assessment of food disgust sensitivity. Study 2 built on these results and refined the scale by substituting pictures from Study 1 with freely available images displaying similar content. The basic structure of the FDPS was then replicated in a bigger sample of Swiss adults (N = 538). Correlational analyses using the eight-item Food Disgust Scale (FDS short), the revised version of the Disgust Scale (DS-R), and the food neophobia scale (FNS) supported the convergent validity of the FDPS. In Study 3 (N = 226), we used a test-retest design to demonstrate the short-term stability of the FDPS. As a result of these studies, the present work provides a short and comprehensive measure of food disgust sensitivity. This novel approach of using pictures to induce a disgust response independently of language significantly facilitates intercultural research on disgust. The FDPS will further contribute to the understanding of food-related disgust and its impact on our food choices.
Digital technologies are a promising means to tackle the increasing global challenges (e.g., climate change, water pollution, soil degradation) and revolutionising agricultural production. The current research used a two-stage Delphi study with 34 experts from various domains, including production, advisory and research, to identify the key drivers and barriers, the most promising technologies and possible measures to support technology adoption in Swiss outdoor vegetable production. Combining these experts’ views, the method provides realistic scenarios for future development. In Round 1, open-ended questions were used to collect the experts’ opinions. These were then transformed into closed-ended questions for Round 2, where controlled feedback was provided to the experts. Twenty-six experts participated in both rounds, resulting in an overall response rate that was comparably high (76%). It was found that economic factors were important drivers and barriers in technology adoption and, consequently, the experts recommended financial measures to support this adoption. The practical relevance of new technologies provided through communication and education holds further potential in terms of their promotion. These findings are valuable beyond the research field. Educators and policy makers can build on the results and optimally align their efforts to target technology adoption and contribute to more sustainable agriculture.
1 March 2021 in Resources, Conservation and Recycling