Abstract
Packaging plays a crucial role in the food industry, primarily for product protection and safety. However, potentially harmful substances may migrate from packaging materials into food, raising concerns about human exposure and health risks. This study aimed to assess the preferences, awareness, knowledge, and safety perceptions regarding food packaging among a sample of Portuguese consumers. A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and May 2021, using an online questionnaire disseminated via social media networks. A total of 253 participants, aged between 18 and 56 years, were involved, with 124 studying or working in the health sciences field and 129 in other areas. It was found that preferences for bulk food options were shown by participants from the health sciences field, while those from other areas preferred plastic-packaged food. Additionally, a higher awareness of food safety concerns was demonstrated by participants from the health sciences field, while participants from other areas reported greater uncertainty. Moreover, participants from the health sciences field adopted more preventive practices to minimize exposure to packaging-related contaminants. This study highlights the importance of increasing consumer literacy on food contact materials and promoting safer practices to ensure safer food handling and packaging choices.