Entomophagy Attitudes Among Turkish Generation Z University Students: A Scale Validation and Path Analysis Model for Sustainable and Healthy Dietary Choices

Abstract

The global challenges of warming temperatures, reduced rainfall, and extreme weather events have heightened the need for sustainable food sources. With a growing world population, there is an increasing demand for environmentally sustainable food production methods, making edible insects a promising alternative due to their nutritional and ecological benefits. This study was conducted to validate the Turkish version of the Entomophagy Attitude Questionnaire (EAQ) and examine, through path analysis, the relationship between university students' attitudes toward insect consumption and sustainable, healthy eating behaviors. The sample consisted of 641 Generation Z students aged 18-23. Data were collected via the Sustainable and Healthy Eating Behaviors Scale (SHEBS), the EAQ, and a demographic survey conducted through Google Forms. Results indicated that the EAQ is a reliable and valid tool, with significant correlations among its components (p < 0.05). Among SHEBS dimensions, the "healthy and balanced diet" factor scored the highest (mean: 4.744), while the "local food" factor scored the lowest (mean: 3.361). Path analysis showed an acceptable model fit for the SHEBS dimensions on the EAQ, with "seasonal foods and avoiding food waste" showing a positive effect on the "interest" dimension of entomophagy (p < 0.05); however, no significant effect was observed for the "disgust" dimension (p > 0.05). The study suggests that public awareness should be raised to reduce negative attitudes toward entomophagy. Future studies should develop comprehensive interventions to overcome cultural barriers to entomophagy and promote this alternative to a wider audience.