Adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern and its associated factors in Portuguese workers

Purpose This study aims to characterize the adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern (MDP) among Portuguese workers and to identify specific demographic and lifestyle factors associated with adherence to this dietary pattern. Understanding these associations can guide public health interventions to improve dietary habits within this population group. Design/methodology/approach The study used a cross-sectional design, analysing data from a sample of 2,119 Portuguese workers, drawn from the latest National Food, Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey of the Portuguese General Population (2015–2016). Adherence to the MDP was measured using the Mediterranean diet score, and logistic regression models were used to examine associations between workers’ characteristics and high adherence to the MDP. Findings Results indicate that 72.2% of Portuguese workers exhibit low or moderate adherence to the MDP. Key factors significantly associated with high adherence include age group, marital status, smoking habits and the place of food preparation. Specifically, younger, single workers, smokers, those who consume more restaurant-prepared food and less from home or work canteens are less likely to closely adhere to the MDP. Originality/value This study highlights the low adherence to the MDP among Portuguese workers and identifies specific groups that may benefit from targeted public health initiatives. By focusing on demographic and lifestyle characteristics, this research offers novel insights that can inform strategies to enhance adherence to healthier dietary practices in the workplace and beyond.