A recent study conducted by the 100 Healthy Days Observatory reveals intriguing insights into the eating habits and perceptions of Italians and Danes regarding healthy lifestyles and diets. Nearly all participants from both countries view a healthy lifestyle as synonymous with a balanced diet, with almost 70% actively working toward achieving it. In Italy, half of the population adheres to a regular healthy diet, while in Denmark, slightly over half report consciously choosing healthier food options.
The study, presented on February 25 at Sana Food by Toluna, a digital market research agency, with contributions from Claudia Maccarini of LightUp Italia and Channel Marketing Company, examined the perceptions and dietary habits of 4,000 individuals—3,000 Italians and 1,000 Danes—during two survey phases: spring-summer and autumn-winter.
Key Findings on Healthy Eating Trends
In Italy, the focus is on consuming seasonal fruits and vegetables, organic foods, and carefully reading ingredient labels to avoid harmful additives, preservatives, GMOs, and excess fats. Conversely, in Denmark, the emphasis is on foods rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and Omega 3, as well as those made from all-natural ingredients, with organic products being highly valued.
Interestingly, 49% of Italians associate healthy eating with the Mediterranean diet, reflecting the country’s deep food culture, while only 17% of Danes share this view. In contrast, plant-based eating is recognized by 19% of Danes as a healthy choice, a viewpoint held by only 7% of Italians.
Cultural Differences in Healthy Eating Perceptions
The survey also highlighted cultural differences in the understanding of food classifications like “organic,” “vegan,” and “sustainable agriculture.” Italians show a higher level of awareness regarding terms such as “controlled supply chain” (84%) and “farm-to-table products” (89%), compared to only 54% and 54%, respectively, in Denmark. However, Danes are more familiar with the term “halal,” which 76% of them understand, while just 36% of Italians do. Additionally, Italians are more attuned to categories like “enriched with” and “low in” foods than their Danish counterparts.
Generational Views on a Healthy Lifestyle
The survey also examined how different age groups interpret healthy living. In both countries, the over-56s (Silver group) lead in adopting healthy lifestyles, demonstrating high cultural awareness and a willingness to spend on health-related products. The younger groups, such as those aged 18-29 (Super Teen group), are more influenced by social media trends but maintain a strong connection to digital platforms.
While Italians associate a healthy lifestyle with overall health and well-being, the Silver and Contemporary groups in Italy link it to nature, whereas younger Italians focus on mental and physical care. In Denmark, a healthy lifestyle is often seen as a role model for others, and all age groups place significant importance on balanced eating and exercise.
Eating Healthy Outside the Home
When dining out, 97% of Italians reported choosing healthy meals at least once during the 100 days of the survey, while 92% of Danes made similar choices. This reflects a broader trend in both countries, with 68% of respondents indicating they try to eat healthily when eating out. In Italy, 71% of individuals maintain this habit on a daily basis, compared to 60% in Denmark. Interestingly, Italians across all age groups are consistent in their healthy eating habits when dining out, while the over-56s in Denmark demonstrate greater regularity in choosing healthy options.
Despite the relatively high number of Italians satisfied with healthy food options available when dining out (77%), 46% still feel there are insufficient choices, and 57% criticize the lack of transparency regarding ingredient origins. Danes, on the other hand, express even greater dissatisfaction, with 71% voicing concerns over the lack of detailed information about the food they consume.
This study sheds light on how culture, demographics, and values shape perceptions and behaviors surrounding healthy eating in Italy and Denmark, revealing both similarities and notable differences in the way the two countries approach a balanced lifestyle.
Related topics:
Nutritionist Anjali Mukerjee Shares Secrets to a Happy, Healthy, and Content Life
Lidl Unveils New Packaging to Promote Healthier Eating Habits
Advocate for Healthy Food, Kids, and Local Agriculture
