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Consumers’ attitudes towards healthy eating: A qualitative comparison between older and younger Chinese consumers

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Beth ClarkORCiD, Professor Lynn FrewerORCiD

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).


Abstract

Purpose: Unhealthy diets are associated with an increased risk of non-communicable diseases and present a significant public health challenge. When developing effective interventions and policies, consideration must be given to the unique social culture in which food choice is embedded. Health vulnerabilities to poor nutrition exist throughout life but may be influenced by socio-cultural factors such as age. This study aimed to assess the attitudes of older or younger Chinese consumers towards healthy eating and explore the factors influencing their food choices.Methodology: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in Wuhan, China, with 20 consumers aged 18-25 (Group A) and 20 consumers aged 65 and over (Group B).Findings: Thematic analysis revealed that the two groups had positive attitudes towards healthy eating, although Group A participants were more knowledgeable. Time pressure, food prices, and social networks differentially influence healthy eating practices across age groups.Originality: Given China’s economic and cultural context, healthy eating interventions should consider the individual characteristics and food preferences of the different age groups. This approach can optimize targeted healthy eating interventions, and media communications related to healthy eating.


Publication metadata

Author(s): Dong J, Clark B, Li W, Jin S, Frewer L

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: British Food Journal

Year: 2024

Volume: 126

Issue: 13

Pages: 593-608

Print publication date: 28/10/2024

Online publication date: 28/10/2024

Acceptance date: 28/08/2024

Date deposited: 28/08/2024

ISSN (print): 0007-070X

ISSN (electronic): 1758-4108

Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

URL: https://doi.org/10.1108/BFJ-02-2024-0148

DOI: 10.1108/BFJ-02-2024-0148

Data Access Statement: All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article and its supplementary information files.


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