A consumer-oriented classification system for home meal replacements

This paper introduces a new definition and classification system for home meal replacements (HMR), based on convenience attributes as viewed by consumers. An overview of other food classifications, focusing on methodological aspects, is also presented. The classifying criteria chosen (shelf-life and required preparation) and their organisation in a 4x4 matrix structure demonstrated to provide a sound and effective way of classifying HMR. A qualitative analysis of HMR consumption in The Netherlands was performed by application of the developed system. Results showed that the use of a narrow range of HMR is characteristic of Dutch food consumption. The classification system is expected to provide valuable support for consumer-oriented product and process development. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.