A Study on The Effect of Gastronomic Experience on Food Literacy, Happiness(Eudaimonia) and Quality of Life

Objective: This study identified the relationship between gastronomic experience (aesthetic experience, deviant experience, educational experience), food literacy, happi ness(eudaimonia), and quality of life. Methods: This study conducted an online survey and targeted individuals in their 20s to 40s who have had fine dining experiences at Michelin, fine dining, and hotel restaurants. This study used SPSS 25.0 and AMOS 23.0 to analyze a total of 280 responses. Results: As the aesthetic experience focuses on sensory satisfaction, it was found that there was no direct association with improving food literacy. While deviation experiences had a positive impact on food literacy, educational approaches may have a negative effect. The food literacy enhanced happiness(eudaimonia) and quality of life, with happiness further contributing positively to quality of life. Implications: This study expands the theory on gastronomic experiences and food literacy, offering practical implications, such as supporting gourmetrestaurants, strengthening food literacy programs, and introducing VR/AR-based digital experiences. It highlights the importance of gastronomic experiences in improving happiness and quality of life for individuals in their 20s to 40s.