Vertical farming (plant factory with artificial lighting) and its produce: consumer insights
Sara R. Jaeger
Abstract
More efficient production of food crops is required. Without, difficulty in feeding the world, improving health, and protecting the environment will accelerate. Vertical farming (VF) using a plant factory system with artificial lighting (PFAL) is part of the solution and the focus of this article that begins by introducing the technology. To contribute to Sustainable Development Goals progress VF faces many challenges. In addition, it must gain consumer acceptance. While the literature points to a greater likelihood of overall acceptance than rejection by consumers, a perception also exists that VF is unnatural/artificial. The latter manifests in negative expectations for VF-grown foods, but produce experience disconfirms these. Product quality can be high, and widespread consumer rejection may, therefore, not be the biggest challenge for VF.