Determinants of healthy diet choices during austerity in Greece

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the key determinants of dietary choices of the Greek population during a period of financial austerity.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from the 2016 “Health and Welfare” Greek national cross-sectional survey, in a representative sample of 2,003 individuals, were examined. The survey was conducted via computer-assisted telephone interviews. Sociodemographic characteristics and diet knowledge were examined as potential determinants of four dietary behaviours (fruit, fish, red meat and fast food consumption).

Findings

Findings showed significant gender differences against men (64.4% were overweight and obese; 57.6% and 18.4% reported red meat and fast food consumption more than twice a week, respectively). Age and financial affordability were the most significant determinants of fruit consumption. Fish consumption was determined by age, financial affordability, and family status (unmarried, living with the parents). Gender, age, family status (unmarried, living alone), employment status (unemployed) and social support affected red meat consumption. Finally, factors influencing fast food consumption were gender, age and employment status (unemployed).

Originality/value

This research incorporates unique and original insight in the determinants of healthy dietary choices during the austerity measures in Greece. Findings could contribute to a better understanding of the main factors that influence healthy eating and help develop policies to encourage healthy dietary lifestyles for the general public.

Citation

Koulierakis, G., Dermatis, A., Vassilakou, N.-T., Pavi, E., Zavras, D. and Kyriopoulos, J. (2022), "Determinants of healthy diet choices during austerity in Greece", British Food Journal, Vol. 124 No. 9, pp. 2893-2910. https://doi.org/10.1108/BFJ-10-2020-0883