Recent research shows that people in Italy and Denmark believe a healthy lifestyle is closely tied to a balanced diet. About 70% of those surveyed are dedicated to eating healthily. In Italy, roughly half the population claims they regularly eat well, while one in four have maintained this habit for over three years. In Denmark, just over half consciously opt for healthy food choices.
This data comes from the 100 Healthy Days Observatory, which analyzed the eating habits and lifestyle perceptions of 4,000 individuals—3,000 from Italy and 1,000 from Denmark. The study was conducted in two phases, looking at people’s behaviors over 100 days.
In Italy, trends show a strong preference for seasonal fruits and vegetables, along with natural and organic foods. Many Italians pay close attention to ingredient labels, carefully avoiding additives and GMOs. Conversely, in Denmark, people equate healthy food with nutrition-rich options—like those high in vitamins and Omega-3s—and show a significant interest in organic products.
Interestingly, nearly 49% of Italians connect healthy eating to the Mediterranean diet, which aligns with their culinary culture. In Denmark, only about 17% share this view. Plant-based diets are becoming popular in Denmark, with 19% of respondents favoring them, while only 7% of Italians are on board.
The research also explored cultural differences in how people perceive healthy eating. Terms like “organic” and “sustainable agriculture” are commonly understood in both countries, yet some concepts reveal gaps in awareness. For instance, 84% of Italians understand “controlled supply chains,” compared to just 54% of Danes. Additionally, while 89% of Italians are familiar with “farm-to-table,” only 54% of Danes recognize the term. On the flip side, the term “halal” is understood by 76% of Danes, but only by 36% of Italians.
The study examined various age groups to analyze different perspectives on healthy lifestyles. The older demographic, those over 56, represents the largest segment in both countries. They tend to spend more and are familiar with social media. The 40 to 50 age group, known as the Contemporary Group, is more cautious about spending. Meanwhile, those aged between 30 and 39 are frequent online shoppers and engaged social media users. Finally, the Super Teen group, aged 18 to 29, has grown up in a digital world, which influences their health perceptions.
Across age groups, a healthy lifestyle is viewed positively in both countries. In Italy, it’s often linked to well-being and nature. In Denmark, it’s considered a good example to follow. Italians typically avoid overeating, drink plenty of water, and enjoy nature. Only the younger group in Italy stresses the importance of balancing work and life. For Danes, the older group values nature, the contemporary group avoids junk food, and everyone understands the need to stay hydrated.
The survey indicates that 97% of Italians and 92% of Danes have opted for healthy meals when dining out within the 100-day observation period. Most people, around 68%, strive to choose healthy meals when eating out regularly, especially on weekends. In Italy, 71% believe in healthy eating as a common practice when dining out. However, this habit is less pronounced in Denmark, with 60% following the same approach.
Italians, across all ages, made healthy choices while eating out. In contrast, in Denmark, it’s more common among the older population. Around 93% of respondents in both countries consider healthy eating essential for a healthy lifestyle.
When it comes to satisfaction with healthy dining options, 77% of Italians feel content, while only 59% of Danes share that sentiment. Many Italians still think the options available are lacking, particularly regarding transparency about ingredient origins. The Danish respondents are notably more critical, with 71% expressing dissatisfaction over the information provided about healthy eating choices.
