Jordan Jordanov

Demand for food variety in an emerging market economy

Using food intake survey data collected in Bulgaria in 1997, this study identified socioeconomic and demographic factors affecting demand for varied diet as measured by the count of food items and Entropy index. Consumer preference for food variety exhibited different patterns depending on the length of time allowed for consumption. Estimated correlation coefficients indicated that daily variety deviated from that measured weekly and monthly. Regression analysis showed that regional effects differed across the three periods of time, illustrating that the length of time allowed for consumption is an important element in measuring the demand for food variety.

Consumer concerns about nutritional attributes in a transition economy

Abstract In Bulgaria, transition from a centrally planned to a market-driven system brought a substantial decline in real incomes and increase in general level of food prices. Resulting increases in food expenditure shares in household budgets, coupled with traditional diet patterns high in fat, energy, sugar and sodium, could lead consumers to purchase inexpensive and nutritionally unbalanced foods and potentially increase the risk of the incidence of diet-related health problems. Using a consumer survey data collected in 1997 in Bulgaria, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and consumer concerns about five salient nutritional attributes including fat, sodium, sugar, food energy, and protein. Household income, educational attainment level, gender, age and geographic locations were statistically significant in explaining the variations in nutritional concerns of Bulgarian consumers. The results provide a basis for the development of public nutrition policies and health education programs paying special attention to the particular needs of identified subgroups of the population in Bulgaria.

Food intake patterns of the unemployed and pensioners in Bulgaria

Abstract Transition to a market-oriented economy in Bulgaria has been characterized by declining real incomes and changes in dietary patterns. Nutritional status of the low-income segment of the population has become an important issue. The unemployed and pensioners represent two of the most vulnerable groups because of a substantial reduction in social welfare expenditure. Nationwide food intake survey data collected in 1997 allowed examination of how food intake patterns of the unemployed and pensioners differed from patterns of the employed. Income and sociodemographic profiles, including age, education, gender and geographic region were responsible for differences in food intake patterns.

Identifying Factors Affecting Consumption of Peanut Tahina in Bulgaria

Abstract A demand for snack foods has emerged as market-oriented reforms and privatization progresses in Bulgaria. Information is needed about consumer preferences to compete in the emerging market. This study identified socioeconomic and demographic characteristics influencing the consumption of peanut tahina, a unique product made of ground peanuts. An ordered probit model with sample selection showed that household income, education, age, and location significantly effected the decision to consume the product, but not the consumption intensity.