International Journal on Science and Technology

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Food Neophobia and its Association with Dietary Intake Among Adults (20-40 Years)

Author(s) Rachamalla Pravallika Reddy
Country India
Abstract Food neophobia, the reluctance or fear of consuming unfamiliar foods, is a behavioral trait that influences dietary diversity, nutritional intake, and long-term health. While it may act as a protective mechanism against unsafe foods, high food neophobia can limit food choices and contribute to poor dietary quality. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of food neophobia among adults aged 20–40 years and examine its association with food preferences, dietary habits, and consumption of less familiar foods, with relevance to sustainable nutrition and public health.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 adults in Hyderabad, Telangana, using a structured and validated online questionnaire. Data collected included socio-demographic characteristics, self-reported anthropometric measurements, dietary practices, food and environmental allergies, factors influencing food choices, and responses to the Food Neophobia Scale (FNS). Statistical analyses comprised descriptive statistics, correlation, regression analysis, and ANOVA to assess associations between food neophobia and dietary variables.

The results showed that 71% of participants were neutral, 15.5% food-neophobic, and 13.5% food-neophilic, with no significant gender differences (p > 0.05). Higher food neophobia was associated with significantly lower intake of nutrient-dense but less familiar foods such as fruits, vegetables, and soups, alongside relatively higher consumption of sweets and beverages. Taste was reported as the major barrier to trying new foods (86%), followed by concerns about allergies. Regression analysis demonstrated a significant negative association between food neophobia and dietary diversity, indicating its role as a behavioral barrier to sustainable diets.

From a multidisciplinary life sciences perspective, food neophobia represents an important interface between behavioral nutrition, public health, and sustainable food systems. Reduced acceptance of diverse foods can limit the utilization of underexploited crops and traditional foods, indirectly affecting agricultural biodiversity and food security. Addressing food neophobia through integrative nutrition education and policy-driven interventions is essential for promoting sustainable dietary transitions aligned with global sustainability goals.
Keywords Food Neophobia, Dietary Diversity, Nutritional Intake, Public Health, SDGs
Published In Conference / Special Issue (Volume 17 | Issue 1) - One Day National Seminar on “Advances in Life Sciences for Diversity, Applications, and Human Welfare” (ALSDAHW-2025) (March 2026)
Published On 2026-03-16
DOI https://doi.org/10.71097/IJSAT.ALSDAHW-2025.117
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