Navigating Food Choices in Unequal Realities: A Comparative Study Across São Paulo, Brazil

The determinants of food choice represent a set of factors that influence dietary decisions, justifying this act from a multidisciplinary perspective. Understanding these determinants appears to be a promising approach for implementing effective public policies aimed at behavioral changes and the adoption of healthy habits. This study aims to analyze the influence of socioeconomic inequality on individuals' food choices. A cross-sectional study with a sample of 136 adults from different regions of the city of São Paulo, divided into of low (LNSE) and high socioeconomic status (HNSE). Food choice motives were assessed using the Food Choice Questionnaire (FCQ). The LNSE group showed significantly higher averages for price, sensory appeal, and mood, while ethical concern and natural content were more relevant for the HNSE group. The results suggest significant differences in food choice motives between socioeconomically disparate groups, highlighting the need for policymakers and nutritionists to consider motivational individualities as guiding principles for their practices and decision-making processes to reduce health inequities.