Behavioral and Social Determinants of Dietary Change

Abstract

Dietary behavior is shaped by a complex interaction of psychological, social, cultural, and environmental factors, making the adoption of sustainable and plant-based diets a multidimensional challenge. Individual choices are influenced by taste preferences, habits, perceived norms, and knowledge, but are also constrained by food environments, including availability, affordability, and marketing exposure. Cultural identity, structural inequality and social context shape dietary patterns, reinforcing established consumption habits. Preferences for familiar and palatable foods, limited cooking skills, time constraints, and limited access to healthy options can hinder dietary change. Misinformation and conflicting messages around nutrition and sustainability complicate decision-making. Evidence-based interventions highlight the importance of addressing both individual and structural determinants. Various behavioral tools, such as nudge, Boost or Think interventions (i.e. making plant-based options more visible or default), can influence behavior without restricting choice. Social marketing approaches that reframe plant-based diets in terms of taste, convenience, or social norms can improve acceptability. Digital health tools and personalized nutrition interventions offer opportunities to support behavior change through feedback, monitoring, and tailored recommendations. Schools, workplaces, and healthcare systems can modify food environments, normalize healthier choices, and provide education and support. These settings are important for reaching diverse populations and establishing long-term habits. Measuring adherence and sustainability requires multidimensional approaches, including dietary indices, behavioral metrics, and health outcomes over time. Sustained dietary change depends on aligning individual motivation with supportive environments, emphasizing that effective interventions must integrate behavioral science with systemic change and long-term support.