Objective Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Gum Arabic Consumption among Malaysian Users

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between objective knowledge and attitude towards the practice of Gum Arabic (GA) consumption among Malaysian users. This study also considered the influence of attitude as a mediating factor in the relationship between objective knowledge and practice. Data were collected purposively, with a total of 301 valid responses via an online survey. Data analysis was conducted using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The findings showed that objective knowledge influenced attitude, but has no influence on the practice of GA, while attitude was strongly associated with the practice of GA consumption. The findings also revealed that attitude mediated the relationship between objective knowledge and practice. These findings are noteworthy contribution to the body of knowledge, especially towards explaining GA users' overall objective knowledge, attitude, and practice. This research proposed that giving correct and justified information as guidance for users may reduce unforeseen risks.