The Impact of Generational Differences on Food Preferences: A Study on Generation Y and Generation Z

Abstract

This study examines the food consumption habits and preferences of Generation Y and Generation Zfocusing on the factors influencing dietary behaviors and evaluating whether generational differences are statistically significant. The findings indicate that food preferences are mainly shaped by healthtasteand economic factorswith no statistically significant differences between the two generations. Although Generation Y shows a relatively stronger tendency toward health-conscious eatingboth generations prioritize taste and convenience in their food choices. The study also analyzes meal-skipping behaviorsrevealing that Generation Z is more likely to skip breakfastwhile Generation Y tends to skip lunch; howeverthese differences are not statistically significant. Analysis of influencing factors demonstrates that individual preferences are the most dominant determinant (73.8%)whereas the influence of family (14.9%)media (2.2%)and dietitians (1.5%) remains limited. The findings are consistent with previous research. Neverthelesslimitations related to sample compositiongeographical scopeand self-reported data suggest the need for further research.