Eat mindfully, live spiritually, sustain our world

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Environmental Science
• Sociology

Background:

• Investigates the link between spirituality and sustainable eating behaviors in Italy.
• Highlights the growing influence of ethical and spiritual values on consumer choices beyond economic, environmental, or health factors.
• Defines spirituality as a connection with nature, duty, and inner balance, influencing eco-conscious dietary habits.

Purpose of the Study:

• Examines how spirituality influences sustainable consumer behaviors using a modified Norm Activation Model.
• Assesses the impact of spiritual constructs on environmentally conscious eating patterns.
• Addresses a gap in Italian literature concerning spirituality and sustainable food choices.

Main Methods:

• Online survey administered to household grocery decision-makers.
• Utilized validated psychometric scales for environmental attitudes, ecological identity, spirituality, and eating behaviors.
• Analyzed data using confirmatory factor analysis and hierarchical multiple regression.

Main Results:

• Spiritual dimensions, specifically duty orientation and equanimity, positively influence personal norms.
• Personal norms significantly predict sustainable eating behaviors.
• Awareness of environmental consequences and personal responsibility act as key mediators.

Conclusions:

• Spirituality is a potent motivator for sustainable and ethical food choices.
• Interventions incorporating spiritual values can improve the promotion of sustainable food systems.
• Mindful, low-impact eating is supported by spiritual motivations.