ISSUE 60 — DECEMBER 2021
Changes in Food Consumption During the Covid-19 Pandemic It is safe to say that the global Covid-19 pandemic has upended our daily lives and routines in more ways than one, and a growing body of research is suggesting that one of these changes is to do with our relationship with food.
With more time spent indoors and extra time on our hands, food is no longer just an essential part of our daily lives but another activity to help fill the lull. We have created a list of some of the key changes felt across the world, read on to see if any resonate with you.
Healthier food choices Although Covid-19 has had lasting negative health impacts for many, it has also left a legacy of healthier eating. As our lives have been dictated by lockdowns and restrictions, we have been forced to slow down and reflect on our lifestyles. This has seen a seismic shift in consumer behaviour, with consumers becoming more mindful of healthier, nurturing diets and lifestyles. ‘Keto’, ‘intermittent fasting’, ‘oat milk’ - these are all terms that have entered the vernacular
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of an increasingly health-conscious Australian population. Consumers are no longer following a ‘one-size-fits-all’ diet, instead these are being replaced with contemporary diets which are more personalised to the individual.
More time spent cooking at home and with others As well as being more mindful of our food choices, we have been spending more time in the kitchen preparing and cooking our own meals. State-wide lockdowns and restrictions on venues capacity have reduced the amount we go out to eat. It’s no secret that the ingredients that make food taste so good are those that are bad for us, and when we prepare food at home, we are more conscious of how much butter, sugar, and salt we add to our meals. When we cook from home we are also less likely to prepare large portion sizes and be tempted by fried food.
