Cross‑national differences in knowledge, attitudes and behaviors toward plant‑based diets: A pilot study among Italian and Dutch adults
Abstract
Background: This study explored knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding plant-based diets among participants from Italy and the Netherlands, with a focus on health and environmental sustainability. This pilot study lays the groundwork for broader research on how cultural, regional, and traditional background factors influence diet-related knowledge and behaviors. Methods: A comparative study of eating habits in Italy and the Netherlands conducted through a 30-question KAB (Knowledge-Attitude-Behavior)-based survey, developed in English and translated into Italian via back-translation. An online questionnaire was administered in August–September 2024. A total of 884 adults (Italian and Dutch nationals) participated. Results: Dutch participants were more aware than Italians of the environmental impact of dietary choices (69% vs 43%, p<0.01) and showed a higher prevalence of plant‑based diets (47% vs 17%, p<0.01). While omnivores in both countries showed limited interest in fully embracing a plant-based diet, Dutch respondents were more open to increasing plant-based alternative products in the future than Italians (p<0.01). About a quarter of respondents in both countries reported having considered using dietary restrictions as a socially accepted form of eating control (17% Dutch; 24% Italians). Food selection criteria differed, with Dutch participants prioritizing price, organic quality, and taste, and Italians emphasized seasonality and origin. Discussion: The study revealed differences in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors toward plant-based diets between the two populations. As a pilot study, these findings offer initial insights and may inform future research with larger, multi-country samples to better explore the influence of cultural, regional, and traditional factors on dietary choices and perceptions related to plant-based diets and their links to health and sustainability.