Exploring fish consumer behaviour and constraints in the Delhi National Capital of India

Abstract

This study explored the behaviour of fish consumers and the challenges they face in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India. Fish is a vital source of animal protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, and is widely acknowledged as a beneficial for overall health. Data was collected from 60 fish consumers during December 2016 to February 2017, utilizing a pre-tested interview schedule. Using descriptive statistics and RBQ analysis, the study found that fish accounted for 14.77% household expenditure on food while another 15.48% was spent on other meat items excluding fish. In the NCR, preferences leaned heavily towards rohu, catla, and exotic carps, boasting RBQ scores of 99.44, 74.44, and 45.28, respectively. Higher cost of fish (RBQ score 89.29), followed by concerns regarding its odour (67.38), price volatility (65.38), and inadequate hygiene (56.43) were identified as the primary barriers constraining fish consumption. The study underscores the indispensable role of fish consumption in bolstering nutritional well-being and highlights the imperative of addressing pertinent challenges to ensure its accessibility and desirability.