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Generational Influence on Diet Quality: An Analysis Based on Vigitel 2023
João Paulo Lima de Oliveira1, Laudicéia Ferreira Fróis2, Bianca Aparecida de Sousa1
1Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Summary
Younger generations in Brazil, including Generation X, Y, and Z, show a higher likelihood of consuming ultra-processed foods compared to Traditionalists. This dietary pattern highlights a need for targeted public health interventions to improve diet quality across different age cohorts.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Food consumption patterns are influenced by sociodemographic factors, including generational cohorts.
- Different generations (Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y, Gen Z) exhibit distinct dietary behaviors.
- Understanding generational differences in diet quality is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between generational groups and diet quality in Brazil.
- To assess the consumption of unprocessed/minimally processed versus ultra-processed foods (UPF) across different cohorts.
- To identify which generations are most at risk for poor diet quality.
Main Methods:
- Population-based cross-sectional study using data from the 2023 Vigitel survey in Brazil.
- Dietary intake assessed via questionnaire, with a score based on food processing level.
- Generational status categorized into Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y, and Gen Z.
- Logistic regression models adjusted for education, marital status, and region.
Main Results:
- A sample of 21,690 Brazilian adults was analyzed.
- Generation X, Y, and Z had significantly higher odds of consuming a lower-quality diet compared to Traditionalists.
- Odds ratios for lower diet quality were 1.78 (Gen X), 3.24 (Gen Y), and 3.45 (Gen Z).
Conclusions:
- Younger generations (Gen X, Y, Z) show a greater tendency towards diets high in ultra-processed foods.
- These diets are characterized by high energy density, added sugars, and saturated fats.
- Targeted public health strategies are needed to address the dietary patterns of younger generations.
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