The Social Determinants of Nutritional Lifestyle: The Study of Takeaway Food Consumption Patterns Among Adults in Shiraz, Iran

Food, while fulfilling biological needs, acts as a pivotal element in social and cultural identities. It is around the act of eating and nutrition that social interactions and communications are cultivated and reinforced within families, kinship circles, and friendly groups. Similarities in dietary and nutritional habits can also lead to a homogeneity among distinct social groups and subcultures. This study aims to examine the social determinants influencing lifestyle choices, particularly focusing on the consumption patterns of takeaway food among Shiraz city residents aged 18 and above. 

Methods and Data: 

This study was conducted through a quantitative survey approach, utilizing a cross-sectional design. Data were collected though a survey questionnaire. A stratified cluster sampling technique was employed to gather data among 420 people aged 18 and above in Shiraz city. 

The study revealed a significant and inverse relationship between the social capital and lifestyle choices in terms of nutritional patterns. Based on the results, with the decrease of social capital, the desire for a style of takeaway food increased. Results also show that the social capital scores were consistently moderate to high across various groups, showing little variation. The findings further suggest that social participation plays a more pivotal role than other aspects of social capital. 

The research indicates that various social groups in Shiraz, endowed with a relatively high level of social capital, maintain a firm commitment to the city's traditional nutritional lifestyle. This contrasts sharply with the nutritional changes often associated with development and industrialization processes. 

Key Message:

 With the proliferation of take-out food establishments, identifying the key factors influencing this dietary habit is essential to minimize its negative impacts and limit its expansion. The study suggests that the diverse social groups in Shiraz, underpinned by strong social capital, adhere to the traditional dietary lifestyle that is prevalent in the city, showing resistance to the nutritional changes that are often associated with ongoing development and industrialization.