T. Ozbun
Research expert covering food retail and all food topics for Italy and Brazil
Eating habits in Italy - statistics & facts
As a result of inflation and increasing food costs, a substantial portion of Italians significantly or somewhat altered their eating behavior. To address these escalating costs, consumers in Italy have adopted various strategies. The most commonly practiced approach involved refraining from purchasing unnecessary products, while strategies such as limiting food waste and purchasing products on offer were nearly as prevalent. Despite the price hikes, the predominant attitude among Italians towards food was a focus on maintaining a healthy diet.
Although dining at home remains a prevalent practice in Italy, the percentage of Italians going out to eat had been gradually increasing until 2019, just before the pandemic. However, in the following year, this percentage decreased significantly and has only recently begun to recover. Most Italians, when eating out, opt for full-service food establishments like restaurants and cafés, while a still considerable portion makes use of limited-service options such as fast food and takeaways.
Although a fair share of Italians are actively trying to eat healthily, some still have a way to go.
Diet choices
In Italy, the Mediterranean diet, which encompasses Italian cuisine, was the preferred choice. Locals often also opt for traditional national dishes or local renditions, reflecting the country's diverse culinary landscape where food varies significantly between regions and even towns. This is also reflected outside of Italy’s border as its cuisine is now a favorite of many consumers around the globe.Meal habits
Most Italians typically have lunch at home, even among the workforce. It remains a common practice for many businesses in the country to observe a lunch break, with fewer than a fifth of the population opting to eat at work, school, or in a café. Moreover, lunch is regarded as the primary meal for the majority, while for a minority, dinner takes precedence. Despite their love for food, breakfast is not as highly regarded, sometimes being limited to just a cup of coffee and a sweet pastry. In addition, a small percentage of the population still struggles to have an adequate breakfast.Although dining at home remains a prevalent practice in Italy, the percentage of Italians going out to eat had been gradually increasing until 2019, just before the pandemic. However, in the following year, this percentage decreased significantly and has only recently begun to recover. Most Italians, when eating out, opt for full-service food establishments like restaurants and cafés, while a still considerable portion makes use of limited-service options such as fast food and takeaways.
Healthy eating behavior
A significant portion of consumers in Italy, particularly among the younger age groups, did not consume fruits and vegetables daily - more than a quarter of them fell into this category. Additionally, a significant number of young Italians, much more than their older counterparts, consumed confectioneries and snacks on a weekly basis.Although a fair share of Italians are actively trying to eat healthily, some still have a way to go.
