Exploring Consumer Biased Evaluations : Halos Effects of Local Food and of Related Attributes

The paper explores the (mis)perceptions related to local food to identify potential halo effects. It also investigates whether product beliefs relate to the food category itself or to its perceived attributes. 133 students answered a questionnaire regarding four cheeses labelled as local, conventional, organic, or PDO. Results show that local claims lead to perceiving the cheese as healthier, but less hygienic. Results suggest also other two potential halos: (i) the “tradition halo” that links perceived traditional character to healthiness and taste; and (ii) the “environmental and animal care halo” that links respect for environment and animal welfare to food safety.