Investigating Neophobia Towards New Food Technologies in Italy: The CoNF&TTI Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Food technology neophobia (FTN) is a reluctance to accept novel food production methods.
• FTN poses a barrier to adopting sustainable and innovative dietary practices.
• Understanding FTN's prevalence and drivers is crucial for promoting food innovation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of FTN among Italian university students.
• To identify socio-demographic, behavioral, and attitudinal factors associated with FTN.
• To inform strategies for increasing acceptance of new food technologies.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 1788 undergraduates from 13 Italian universities.
• Online questionnaire including the Food Technology Neophobia Scale (FTNS), environmental attitudes, and demographics.
• Multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• Moderate levels of FTN were observed (mean FTNS score 51.2 ± 14.0).
• Factors inversely associated with FTN included male gender, paternal university education, Northern Italian location, dietary supplement use, and pro-environmental attitudes.
• Commuter students exhibited higher FTN.

Conclusions:

• Socio-demographic, behavioral, and attitudinal factors significantly influence acceptance of new food technologies.
• Targeted interventions are needed for subgroups like female, commuter, and Southern Italian students.
• Addressing FTN can enhance receptivity to food innovation and support sustainable dietary transitions.