Mitos sobre o ovo de galinha e a percepção do consumidor brasileiro

Abstract

Egg is considered one of the most popular foods in the world, being an excellent source of various nutrients. However, for some, it is titled as a health villain, being the target of many unscientific information, besides being characterized and manipulated in erroneous ways. To further expand egg consumption, the objetctive of this study was determine the profile, preferences and perceptions of Brazilian egg consumer in order to define which myths still involve this product and deconstruct them through a future disclosure of truthful information through an information booklet. A research questionnaire containing 26 questions about sociodemographic characteristics, preferences and general knowledge about the egg was disclosed online to people from all regions of Brazil. A total of 3094 questionnaires were collected. Among sampled population, most were from Northeast region, female, aged 21 to 30 years, postgraduates and with monthly income below 4 minimum wages. Most of those who have an undergraduate degree are from Agrarian course, and those who already have a profession are from Humanities area. It can be observed that many myths are being deconstructed in the sampled groups, however, some are still present, such as the belief that eggs have hormones, that eggs with internal stains need to be discarded, and that this food does not need to be stored in refrigeration. Other questions continue to be a cause of doubt for a large part of population, such as the question of the more yellow the yolk, the more nutritious the egg; and if red stain on the egg means the egg is fertile. This information needs to be better clarified for society. Thus, the disclosure of an informative booklet may collaborate with the demystification of beliefs about the egg. Consequently, the increase consumption of this food can be expected, as well as the improvement in the conditions of its handling.