Retaining Traditional Dietary Practices Among Greek Immigrants to Australia: The Role of Ethnic Identity.

Heath Pillen, George Tsourtos, John Coveney, Antonia Thodis, Catherine Itsiopoulos, Antigone Kouris-Blazos

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This article explores why some Greek immigrants to Australia continue to adhere to a traditional Mediterranean diet whereas others have adopted eating behaviors characteristic of a less healthy “Australian” diet. Twelve qualitative interviews were conducted and comparisons made between individuals consuming more (n = 6) and less traditional diets (n = 6). The level of adherence to the diet was previously assessed by a diet score in a separate quantitative study (MEDIS-Australia) from which the subset of 12 participants for the present study was recruited. Analysis revealed that maintenance of a strong ethnic identity offers a pathway through which individuals retain dietary practices of their homeland.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)312-328
Number of pages17
JournalECOLOGY OF FOOD AND NUTRITION
Volume56
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 4 Jul 2017

Keywords

  • Acculturation
  • emigration and immigration
  • ethnic identity
  • Mediterranean diet
  • qualitative research

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