Consumption and eating practices of consumers in the South of Brazil

This study examines food consumption and eating practices among consumers who purchase food in farmers’ markets and supermarkets in the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil). Data were collected between 2023 and 2024, totaling 593 participants. A quantitative approach was adopted, and the data were analyzed using SPSS-26 through Chi-square tests and linear regression models. Findings reveal that consumers who frequent street markets tend to consume a higher proportion of natural and minimally processed foods and are more likely to maintain traditional food practices, including daily and weekend home cooking. In contrast, supermarket consumers show a stronger preference for processed and ultra-processed foods along with higher fast-food intake and screen-based eating. The regression analysis reinforces that the type of purchasing environment is a significant predictor. Overall, the study highlights the influence of food environments on dietary choices and everyday eating habits.