Evaluation of the Portuguese population perception about the concept of Comfort Foods

Sousa, E.; Albuquerque, T.G.; Costa, H.S.

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.18/6134

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Authors

Sousa, E.

Albuquerque, T.G.

Costa, H.S.

Abstract(s)

Introduction: Healthy eating habits are particularly important for the adequate growth and development over all ages. Furthermore, foods have a considerable importance on the emotional support, and are several times a social and cultural symbol. The concept Comfort Food considers that the foods or the culinary recipes are intrinsically linked to our emotions and social relations. In addition, foods can convey a positive sense of comfort and pleasure, by creating a taste memory of familiar flavours. Aims: To verify if the concept "Comfort Food" has importance and meaning for the Portuguese population and to evaluate if there are foods that fit and stand out as preferential taking into account the memories and emotions. Methodology: An online anonymous questionnaire was developed and applied in 2018 to evaluate how the Portuguese population perceives Comfort Foods, as well as to check if there are foods that stand out in this concept. Results and Conclusions: The obtained results were analysed using Microsoft Office Excel© (2007). The questionnaire applied to 57 subjects shows that Comfort Food is recognized as a concept (45.6%) and known by the majority (52.6%) of the participants. A notable association (78.9%) between memories/emotions and comfort foods was observed, especially in women (75.6%) who choose calorie dense foods (61%). The choice of a comfort food differs according to the feeling of sadness and happiness, and/or the presence or absence of family/friends. In summary, Comfort Food is often associated with foods that guarantee satiety and refer to positive memories. The participants not only revealed knowledge about the concept, but also consider and distinguish some foods. Furthermore, it was notable that Comfort foods are associated with emotions.