Socioeconomic Inequalities in Food Consumption: A Cross-Sectional Study in Portuguese Adults

Abstract

Background: Food is a major determinant of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Because of this, social inequalities in food consumption will likely produce social inequalities in disease and life expectancy. Objectives: This study analyses the social inequalities in food consumption in Portugal and whether they differ between men and women and between younger and older people. Methods: Following a cross-sectional observational study, we analyzed data from 11,085 individuals aged 25-64 years who participated in the 2014 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). Logistic regression models were used to measure the association between socioeconomic conditions, i.e., education and income, and food consumption. The analysis was then stratified by sex and age. Results: A positive gradient for income and education was observed in the consumption of fish, cakes, natural juices, and dairy products. The consumption of legumes and soft drinks was inversely related to income and education. A socioeconomic gradient for fruits and vegetables was observed only among women and older people. Worse-off people consumed less soup, and underprivileged women consumed fewer fast-food products. Conclusion: The food consumption patterns of Portuguese adults are related to their socioeconomic condition, with few variations across demographic categories.