Exploring the relationship between ecological footprint awareness, attitudes toward healthy eating, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet

Purpose This study aims to explore the relationship between ecological footprint awareness, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and attitudes toward healthy eating in Turkish adults. Design/methodology/approach This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted among 2054 adults aged 19–65 in Turkey between March and June 2023. Data were collected through a Web-based questionnaire assessing anthropometric measurements, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, attitudes toward healthy eating and ecological footprint awareness. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations and regression analyses were used to assess relationships between these variables. Findings The study found significant positive correlations between ecological footprint awareness, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and attitudes toward healthy eating. Regression analysis revealed that age, ecological footprint awareness and healthy eating attitudes were significant predictors of Mediterranean diet adherence. Additionally, age and educational level were important factors influencing attitudes toward healthy eating. Originality/value This study highlights a crucial relationship between ecological footprint awareness, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and attitudes toward healthy eating. Encouraging adherence to sustainable diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, can reduce ecological footprints and promote planetary and human health.