Social Determinants of Food Literacy in Iranian Adult Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

This research aimed to evaluate the social determinants influencing food literacy among Iranian adults. This cross-sectional investigation was executed during the period spanning from 2023 to 2024, targeting voluntary adult participants (aged 18–65) residing across four provinces (comprising 547 individuals). The study employed questionnaires to assess three behavioral aspects related to food, participants' attitudes toward social media, and their levels of food literacy. The outcomes derived from the regression analysis indicated that various factors, including female gender, marital status, extensive use of social media, advanced age, elevated educational attainment, and a favorable attitude toward social media, were significantly correlated with enhanced food literacy levels. Collectively, these predictors elucidated 16.2% of the variance observed in food literacy. This study highlights Iran's significant social determinants of food literacy. Promoting informed eating practices across diverse demographic groups may be useful in achieving healthier communities in Iran. Future studies should investigate the underlying mechanisms for designing interventions. Performing these investigations within specific contexts could help determine effective strategies for enhancing nutritional knowledge.