From Dakos to diversity: dietary integration and food security among Crete’s immigrant populations

Purpose This study aims to examine food security status and dietary integration patterns among long-term immigrants in Crete, Greece, investigating socioeconomic, cultural and demographic determinants of dietary adaptation. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods approach was used with 471 immigrants (54.4% male; 45.6% female) residing in Crete for ≥5 years. Data were collected via structured questionnaires assessing dietary behaviors, food security dimensions (availability, accessibility and utilization) and sociodemographic factors. Quantitative analyses included t-tests, ANOVA and Spearman correlations. Findings While 91.3% of participants perceived food costs as higher than in their countries of origin, 57.1% reported satisfactory food quality. Married immigrants showed greater dietary adaptation (married vs unmarried: mean adaptation score 3.53 vs 3.23, p < 0.05) and perceived similarity between Cretan and native cuisines. Balkan immigrants exhibited the highest incorporation of Cretan products (mean = 3.87 vs Asian immigrants: 2.94, p < 0.01), while tertiary-educated participants reported the largest perceived differences in food preparation methods. Age positively correlated with adaptation (Spearman R = 0.115, p < 0.05). Economic barriers persisted despite improved income levels in Crete (62.2% earned = €400/month pre-migration vs 19.3% post-migration). Originality/value This research provides novel insights into how cultural proximity, marital dynamics and educational attainment intersect with economic realities to shape dietary integration. The findings underscore Crete’s dual role as a culinary bridge for Balkan immigrants and a barrier for Asian groups, informing targeted food security policies.