Sustainable Nutrition Knowledge and Behaviours in Highly Educated Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aslıhan Atar^1,2* and Hilal Hızlı Güldemir³

1. Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
2. Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Science, Istanbul Beykent University, Istanbul Turkey
3. Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Science, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey

*Corresponding Author: Aslıhan Atar; E-mail: aslihanatar@hotmail.com

Abstract
Background
Sustainable nutrition is crucial for addressing malnutrition, food insecurity, and health issues. Studies highlight the importance of education in shaping environmental attitudes. This study aims to assess the knowledge and behaviours related to sustainable nutrition among highly educated adults.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included 397 highly educated adults who completed an online questionnaire assessing socio-demographics, sustainable nutrition knowledge (SNK), and behaviours (SNB). Construct validity was tested using exploratory factor analysis; internal consistency was evaluated with Cronbach’s alpha. Statistical tests included Chi-square, ANOVA, and regression analysis. A medium effect size (f=0.25) was used for power calculation. Post-hoc tests were conducted where applicable to determine specific group differences.
Results
Among 397 participants (48.6% women, mean age 28.08±6.7), women demonstrated significantly higher levels of both sustainable nutrition knowledge (p=0.023) and behaviours (p<0.001) compared to men. SNB was significantly associated with age (p<0.001), education (p=0.004), and marital status (p<0.001). Participants with higher SNK scores consumed significantly less red meat (p=0.028) and processed meat products (p=0.046) than those with lower SNK scores.
Conclusion
The study found that sustainable nutrition behaviour scores differed significantly across education levels, with higher scores observed among participants with advanced degrees. The perspectives of these adults on sustainable nutrition may also raise awareness of sustainable nutrition in society and serve as a valuable source of information for decision-makers.

Keywords: sustainable nutrition, highly educated, food knowledge, dietary behaviours, adult population