Price and income elasticities of fruit demand in Poland: Evidence from Household Budget Data

Abstract

The aim of this article is to provide an empirical analysis of fruit demand in Polish households using the QUAIDS model. Based on unit-level data from the 2022 Household Budget Survey conducted by Statistics Poland (GUS), income and price elasticities were estimated for six fruit categories: citrus fruits, bananas, apples, berries, stone fruits, and other fruits. The estimation employed the two-step procedure developed by J.S. Shonkwiler and S.T. Yen, accounting for demographic variables and the issue of zero expenditures. The results indicate high sensitivity of fruit demand to changes in both prices and income, particularly for imported fruits. The article provides recommendations for public policy aimed at supporting the domestic fruit market and promoting healthy dietary habits.