Tracking dietary shifts towards lower carbon footprint in Italian households: a longitudinal analysis

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Background Dietary shifts are recognised as major pathways to curb greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE). Although studies have assessed the environmental footprint of diets, few have explored the various strategies consumers use to reduce their carbon footprint through dietary changes. This study aims to examine the dietary shifts of consumers in Italy who have successfully reduced their carbon footprint over time. Methods Food purchase data from approximately 6000 Italian households were collected between 2019 and 2024. Food-related GHGE were assessed using life-cycle assessment. Households that successfully reduced their food-related GHGE during this period were identified as champions. The total volume of food purchases, associated energy intake, GHGE, and expenses were evaluated at both timepoints. Patterns of dietary changes among the champions were identified through hierarchical cluster analysis based on food purchase changes. In addition, sociodemographic characteristics were described. Findings Two distinct patterns of dietary shifts were identified among the 162 champions, reflecting different strategies for reducing dietary carbon footprints. The GHGE reduction was primarily achieved through decreased consumption of animal-based foods, particularly raw ruminant meat. Clusters were associated with specific sociodemographic factors, notably the household composition. Although food expenditures of champions increased slightly, they remained lower than those of non-champions. Interpretation Despite Italy's strong culinary traditions, more environmentally sustainable dietary patterns have emerged over the past decade. Reductions in consumption of animal-based foods are essential for lowering diet-related carbon footprints. To encourage broader adoption of this shift in dietary pattern, targeted strategies tailored to specific sociodemographic groups, such as family households, are necessary. Funding None.

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