A recent global study by the Ando Foundation and Nissin Food Products, conducted through the 2023 Gallup World Poll, highlights a decline in food satisfaction and perceptions of meal healthiness, with notable consequences for overall well-being.
While most people worldwide have historically reported enjoying their food and considering it healthy, recent figures indicate a downturn. The study found that 81% of adults globally were satisfied with their food choices in 2023, and 75% deemed their meals “mostly healthy.” However, this represents a decrease from 87% and 82%, respectively, in 2022.
In the United States, the drop in the perception of healthy eating was even more pronounced, with only 71% of respondents in 2023 reporting their meals were mostly healthy, compared to 83% the previous year.
These findings underscore the significant impact food satisfaction has on quality of life. According to the study, individuals who report enjoying and feeling good about their meals are more likely to experience higher levels of well-being and stronger community attachment. Those fully satisfied with their food choices reported a global life satisfaction score of 6.2 out of 10, compared to just 4.9 for those less satisfied. In North America, the disparity was even clearer, with a satisfaction score of 7 for fully satisfied individuals versus 5.8 for those who were not.
The report also noted regional variations, with people in Latin America, the Caribbean, North America, and Europe being more likely to enjoy their food (92%), compared to lower satisfaction levels in African countries, where 61-66% of respondents expressed similar contentment.
Researchers pointed to food affordability and accessibility as significant barriers to food enjoyment, further influencing perceptions of overall satisfaction.
Experts recommend practical steps to improve food satisfaction, such as starting with meals people enjoy, eating with others, and choosing healthy recipes together. Studies, including a 2017 German study published in Scientific Reports, highlight the psychological benefits of healthy foods, particularly vegetables, which contribute to increased eating happiness.
The We Don’t Waste nonprofit also emphasizes the mental and physical health benefits of a balanced diet, noting that healthy food choices—like leafy greens, fruits, and fatty acids—positively impact both brain function and well-being, regardless of age, sex, or race.
In conclusion, the study suggests that good food is not only vital for physical health but also serves as essential fuel for emotional well-being.
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