Consumption of Healthy and Sustainable Diets among Italian Adults: Environmental Sensitivity or Just a Lifestyle?

Giulia Rivellini, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Emanuela Furfaro , Department of Statistics, University of Washington
Laura Terzera, University of Bicocca Milan

Based on Italian survey data, this study investigates whether the adoption of healthy and sustainable diets among Italian adults is driven by environmental sensitivity or personal lifestyle choices. The research is set against a backdrop of increasing focus on the role of diets in health, ageing, and climate change mitigation. The analysis uses 2022 data from ISTAT's "Aspects of Daily Life" survey, focusing on adults aged 18 and over (n=33,315). Two key dietary indicators are examined: high consumption of fruits and vegetables (at least four portions daily) and limited consumption of red and processed meat (less than once a week), which together characterize a Mediterranean diet. The study also incorporates variables for physical activity, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption to measure a healthy lifestyle. Environmental sensitivity is assessed through two domains: Grocery Environmental Behaviour and Everyday Environmental Practices. Preliminary findings show significant variations in dietary patterns by age and sex. The study tests two hypotheses: first, that individual environmental sensitivity is associated with a healthier and more sustainable diet; and second, that a personal lifestyle focused on ego well-being is similarly associated. Using logistic regression, the research aims to identify the demographic and behavioural factors linked to the probability of following a Mediterranean diet, with a particular focus on older adults. The expected findings aim to inform policy interventions for promoting healthy ageing and sustainable consumption.

See extended abstract

 Presented in Session P5. Health, Mortality, and Ageing 1