Differences In Food Preferences Research Articles

EXPRESS: How Socioeconomic Status Shapes Food Preferences and Perceptions

This paper assesses the extent to which consumers from the opposite poles of the socioeconomic distribution weigh three critical food attributes–healthiness, fillingness, and taste–, how they perceive the associations among them, and how differences in weights and associations influence food preferences. The results of a series of eight pre-registered studies in a highly unequal socioeconomic environment (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) show that low (vs. high) socioeconomic status consumers are more likely to (a) choose unhealthy items even when supply-side factors (e.g., affordability and accessibility) are controlled by design, (b) trade healthiness for fillingness (but not taste), and (c) display stronger negative associations between the attributes (healthy = less filling; healthy = less tasty). These findings highlight the importance of a deeper understanding of the psychological differences in food preferences and perceptions and the use of such insights to design interventions aimed at mitigating nutritional inequality. In line with this rationale, the final set of studies shows that, albeit not being a trivial task, it is possible to increase healthy food choices among the disadvantaged by enhancing the fillingness of the healthy options available. Managerial and policy implications are discussed.

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Dietary Intake and Quality Among United States Veterans

BackgroundDietary quality plays an important role in disease development and prognosis, and diet is also a key contributor to disparities in many chronic diseases and health conditions. ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess racial and ethnic disparities experienced by veterans; we examined food intake and dietary quality across different racial and ethnic groups of United States veterans. MethodsThe study included 420,730 males and females aged 19–107 y (91.2% males) enrolled in the Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program with plausible dietary intake measured by food frequency questionnaire. Dietary quality was evaluated with dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) score. Dietary intakes of various race and ethnicity groups were standardized to the age distribution of non-Hispanic White participants, separately for males and females. Differences across race and ethnicity groups were compared using general linear regression models after adjustment for socioeconomic and lifestyle factors as well as military service. ResultsCompared to non-Hispanic White males, non-Hispanic Black males had a relatively lower DASH score, higher red and processed meats, higher sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), and lower low-fat dairy intakes. Non-Hispanic Asian males had a relatively higher DASH score as compared to non-Hispanic White males with relatively higher intakes of fruits and vegetables and relatively lower intakes of sodium, red meat and SSBs. Age-standardized DASH scores of Hispanic males and “Other” race/ethnicity groups were not statistically different from non-Hispanic White males. Similar race and ethnicity dietary patterns were found in females, although not all reached a statistically significant level. ConclusionsA modest difference in overall dietary quality (i.e., DASH score) was observed, but unique differences in food preferences across the different racial/ethnic groups were identified. Findings from our study may provide insight for the potential development of specific interventions to help address nutritional disparities experienced among veterans.

Association of maternal genetics with the gut microbiome and eucalypt diet selection in captive koalas.

Koalas, an Australian arboreal marsupial, depend on eucalypt tree leaves for their diet. They selectively consume only a few of the hundreds of available eucalypt species. Since the koala gut microbiome is essential for the digestion and detoxification of eucalypts, their individual differences in the gut microbiome may lead to variations in their eucalypt selection and eucalypt metabolic capacity. However, research focusing on the relationship between the gut microbiome and differences in food preferences is very limited. We aimed to determine whether individual and regional differences exist in the gut microbiome of koalas as well as the mechanism by which these differences influence eucalypt selection. Foraging data were collected from six koalas and a total of 62 feces were collected from 15 koalas of two zoos in Japan. The mitochondrial phylogenetic analysis was conducted to estimate the mitochondrial maternal origin of each koala. In addition, the 16S-based gut microbiome of 15 koalas was analyzed to determine the composition and diversity of each koala's gut microbiome. We used these data to investigate the relationship among mitochondrial maternal origin, gut microbiome and eucalypt diet selection. This research revealed that diversity and composition of the gut microbiome and that eucalypt diet selection of koalas differs among regions. We also revealed that the gut microbiome alpha diversity was correlated with foraging diversity in koalas. These individual and regional differences would result from vertical (maternal) transmission of the gut microbiome and represent an intraspecific variation in koala foraging strategies. Further, we demonstrated that certain gut bacteria were strongly correlated with both mitochondrial maternal origin and eucalypt foraging patterns. Bacteria found to be associated with mitochondrial maternal origin included bacteria involved in fiber digestion and degradation of secondary metabolites, such as the families Rikenellaceae and Synergistaceae. These bacteria may cause differences in metabolic capacity between individual and regional koalas and influence their eucalypt selection. We showed that the characteristics (composition and diversity) of the gut microbiome and eucalypt diet selection of koalas differ by individuals and regional origins as we expected. In addition, some gut bacteria that could influence eucalypt foraging of koalas showed the relationships with both mitochondrial maternal origin and eucalypt foraging pattern. These differences in the gut microbiome between regional origins may make a difference in eucalypt selection. Given the importance of the gut microbiome to koalas foraging on eucalypts and their strong symbiotic relationship, future studies should focus on the symbiotic relationship and coevolution between koalas and the gut microbiome to understand individual and regional differences in eucalypt diet selection by koalas.

Cross-Cultural Differences in Food Preferences and Consumption Patterns

Purpose: This study sought to explore cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. Preliminary empirical review revealed that cultural heritage profoundly influenced individuals' food preferences and consumption habits, with distinct culinary traditions and family influences shaping dietary behaviors within specific cultural contexts. Globalization and urbanization were found to impact food preferences, yet traditional dietary practices remained resilient. Additionally, socio-economic factors significantly influenced dietary behaviors, particularly in low-income communities. These findings emphasized the importance of recognizing cultural diversity and socio-economic disparities in promoting healthy eating behaviors and improving public health outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Cultural Anthropology theory, Social Identity theory and Ecological Systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on cross- cultural differences in food preferences and consumption patterns. The study offered valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field of nutrition and public health. By identifying cultural influences on food preferences and consumption patterns, the study enriched theoretical frameworks such as cultural anthropology, social identity theory, and ecological systems theory. Its findings informed the development of culturally sensitive interventions and educational programs, empowering individuals to make healthier food choices while respecting cultural heritage. Additionally, the study's insights guided the formulation of evidence-based policies aimed at addressing diet-related health disparities and promoting food security and nutrition equity on a global scale.

Assessing gender differences in food preferences and physical activity: a population-based survey.

Food preferences are influenced by various factors, such as culture, age, and gender. The relationship between food tastes, meal preferences, and eating habits has been studied extensively in recent years; however, research on gender differences in these fields still needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to investigate gender differences in food preferences and eating habits through self-administered questionnaires in a large Italian population sample. The online survey included questions on food tastes, meal preferences, eating habits, and sport involvement. The results of the study underline significant gender-specific dietary tendencies among the 2198 participants (1314 females and 884 males, average age 41.1 ± 12.7 yrs). The majority of subjects were in the annual income range between €20,000 and €40,000. Our analysis reveals significant gender differences in dietary preferences and eating habits. Men prefer red and processed meat, with significantly higher consumption rates than women. Women, on the other hand, show a greater inclination towards vegetables, whole grains, tofu, and high-cocoa-content dark chocolate, aligning with healthier food choices. The study also found differences in eating behaviors, including the frequency of meals, snacking habits, and hunger patterns: women tend to eat more frequently and report higher levels of hunger in the morning, while men tend to skip snacks. Furthermore, differences extend to eating contexts, such as the speed of eating, eating out, and eating alone, with men more likely to eat quickly and dine out. Episodes of uncontrolled eating without hunger also differ, with women reporting these behaviors more frequently than men. In addition, the analysis of sports preferences showed distinct patterns, with a lower percentage of women playing sports and those who do play sports preferring endurance and strength training, while men prefer strength training and endurance sports. These findings elucidate the complex interplay of biological, cultural, and gender-based factors in shaping dietary preferences and eating behaviors. In particular, our study reveals that gender dynamics significantly influence food choice and eating habits: women tend to choose healthier foods and eat regular meals, while men show preferences for specific tastes and meal-related behaviors. This analysis underscores the nuanced differences between male and female dietary patterns, influenced not only by inherent biological factors such as genetics and hormonal responses but also by societal norms and cultural contexts. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of integrating different perspectives, thus providing valuable insights into the development of public health strategies and tailored nutrition interventions aimed at chronic disease prevention.

Differences in Opinion on Healthy and Junk Food Between Generation Y and Generation Z

Consumption of both healthy and junk food is becoming a major public health concern, especially among younger generations. In Ahmedabad, India, this study looks at the perspectives of two generations on the choice between junk food and healthy food: Generation Z (born 1997–2012) and Generation Y (born 1981–1996).A survey regarding these food categories was administered to [number of respondents] individuals of both generations to assess their attitudes, opinions and consumption patterns. The aim of the data analysis, which used [the technologies described], was to find significant differences in their health knowledge, influencing factors and preferences. The results increase our knowledge of generational differences in food preferences and guide focused initiatives aimed at encouraging better eating practices in Generation Y and Generation Z

Gender differences in body composition, dietary patterns, and physical activity: insights from a cross-sectional study.

This study investigates the interplay between body composition, dietary patterns, and physical activity across genders, focusing on gender-specific differences in food preferences and eating behaviors. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing targeted nutritional and lifestyle interventions. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,333 participants (58.7% female, 41.3% male), aged 18-65 years. Participants were categorized into tertiles based on their fat mass to fat-free mass (FM-to-FFM) ratio. Data on dietary choices, eating behaviors, and physical activity were collected and analyzed to identify gender-specific trends. Significant gender-specific differences were observed in food preferences and eating behaviors. Males experienced greater hunger in the late afternoon, while females felt more hunger in the morning. Males showed a preference for processed and red meats, whereas females preferred cooked vegetables. Eating behaviors such as meal skipping, uncontrolled eating, nocturnal eating, and taste preferences (sweet or salty) varied distinctly between FM-to-FFM tertiles and genders. Higher FM-to-FFM ratios correlated with lower physical activity levels, particularly in strength training and general sports engagement. These findings highlight the complex interactions between body composition, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors, emphasizing gender-specific differences. The results suggest that body composition and BMI significantly impact health-related behaviors, necessitating tailored interventions to address these differences and promote healthier lifestyles.

Food and feeding habits of Indian sciaenids - A review

An attempt was made in the present article to review the food and feeding habits of thefishes of the family Sciaenidae from Indian waters. Members of the Sciaenidae family arecommonly referred to as croakers or drums because of the sound produced by their swimbladders. Sciaenids are distributed in tropical and sub-tropical oceans. They are carnivorous,feeding mainly on crustaceans, small fish, molluscs, annelids and polychaetes and exhibitcannibalism. Sciaenids display differences in food preferences between early stages andadults; the former prefers zooplankton and crustaceans, and the latter mainly smallerteleosts. The feeding intensity was found to be higher in smaller groups compared to maturefish. Considerable temporal variations were recorded in food item occurrence, indicatingan empty stomach during peak breeding and a wide spectrum of food items during otherseasons. Keywords:Croakers, Feeding intensity, Food and feedinghabits, Sciaenids

Comparative genetic study of the colony structure and colony spatial distribution between the higher termite Amitermes parvulus and the lower, subterranean termite Reticulitermes flavipes in an urban environment

In insects, ecological competition has often resulted in phenotypic changes and modifications to foraging areas. In termites—and social insects as a whole—colonies cannot easily escape competition through the relocation of their colony. In these species, the outcomes of inter and intra-specific competition are influenced by different life history traits, such as colony size, breeding system (number and types of reproductives), food preference, tunneling patterns, nest site selection, and antagonism between colonies. Here, we investigated variation in breeding system and spatial distribution among colonies of a higher termite Amitermes parvulus and a subterranean termite Reticulitermes flavipes within an urban landscape. We first developed microsatellite markers as a tool to study these life history traits in A. parvulus. Second, we assessed competitive exclusion or tolerance of A. parvulus and R. flavipes colonies by determining their fine-scale distribution using monitoring stations on a grid site, and their large-scale distribution across an urban landscape. Third, we investigated the breeding system of A. parvulus colonies. We showed that the numerous colonies of R. flavipes inhabiting a restricted area contrast with the few, but spatially expansive colonies of A. parvulus, suggesting these species face different degrees of intra-specific competition. We showed that colonies of A. parvulus frequently merged together, and all of them were likely headed by inbred neotenic reproductives, two characteristics rarely observed in higher termites. Overall, our study revealed drastic differences in colony structure, breeding systems and foraging ranges between the two species. These differences may reflect differences in food preference and food availability between the two species allowing their co-existence within the same urban environment.

Analysis of Determinants of Food Preferences in a Polish Population-Based Sample of Primary School Adolescents: Diet and Activity of Youth during COVID-19 (DAY-19) Study.

For the choices of food products, food preferences are crucial, as they influence the intake of nutrients and the resultant quality of diet, but in Poland, no studies of food preferences were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic on a population of young adolescents. The aim of this study was to analyze the determinants of food preferences in a Polish population-based sample of primary school adolescents as part of the Diet and Activity of Youth during COVID-19 (DAY-19) Study. The DAY-19 Study focused on a national sample of a population of primary school adolescents who were recruited based on cluster sampling of participants from counties and schools, yielding a sample of 5039 individuals. Their food preferences were assessed using the Food Preference Questionnaire (FPQ), and they were compared in subgroups stratified by (1) gender: male and female; (2) age: younger (10-13 years) and older (14-16 years); (3) place of residence: urban and rural; (4) Body Mass Index (BMI): underweight, normal body weight, and overweight/obese (assessed based on Polish growth reference values); and (5) physical activity level: low and moderate (assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire for children aged 10-13 (IPAQ-C) and adolescents aged 14-16 (IPAQ-A)). In the population of adolescents, no statistically significant differences in food preferences between subgroups stratified by gender were observed (p > 0.05). For boys, none of the studied factors (age, place of residence, BMI, physical activity level) was statistically significant determinant of food preferences (p < 0.05), while for girls, all of them were statistically significant determinants (p > 0.05). All the assessed factors (age, place of residence, BMI, physical activity level) in girls were associated with preferences for snacks, and older girls, those from a rural environment, those who were underweight and overweight/obese, as well as those having a low physical activity level declared a higher preference for snacks than younger ones (p = 0.0429), those from an urban environment (p = 0.0484), those of a normal body weight (p = 0.0091), and those having a moderate physical activity level (p = 0.0083). Similarly, girls from rural environments declared a higher preference for starches than those from urban environments (p = 0.0103), and girls having a low physical activity level declared a higher preference for fruit than those having a moderate physical activity level (p = 0.0376). Taking this into account, the population of girls, in particular, needs dedicated educational actions to support proper nutritional habits. Additionally, older age, living in a rural environment, being underweight and overweight/obese, and having a low physical activity level may be indicated as factors predisposing one to food preferences potentially promoting unhealthy dietary habits.

Mercury and selenium levels in feathers of Southern Giant Petrels (Macronectes giganteus) from South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

Concentrations of Hg and Se were assessed in dorsal feathers of Southern Giant Petrels (SGP) from three Antarctic islands. Feather sampling was conducted during four breeding seasons (2011 to 2014) at Elephant and King George Islands, and during two breeding seasons (2012 and 2013) at Livingston Island. Hg concentrations found in SGP feathers ranged from 1.99 to 68.38 μg g−1, while Se concentrations varied from 1.18 to 12.0 μg g−1. Inter-annual and inter-colony differences were observed, which could be associated to ecological factors such as diet, foraging patterns and migration. Sex does not significantly influence the concentration of metals. The highest concentrations of Hg were found on Elephant Island, which is the northernmost island of the three, where the SGP feathers had the maximum mercury value ever recorded since the 1950s in the Southern Ocean and Antarctic Islands. The present data contributes to monitoring efforts of Hg exposure in Antarctic seabirds and can be used to obtain relevant information about the SGP, such as differences in food preferences at different breeding sites and foraging patterns.

Does Bypass of the Proximal Small Intestine Impact Food Intake, Preference, and Taste Function in Humans? An Experimental Medicine Study Using the Duodenal-Jejunal Bypass Liner.

The duodenal-jejunal bypass liner (Endobarrier) is an endoscopic treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It creates exclusion of the proximal small intestine similar to that after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) surgery. The objective of this study was to employ a reductionist approach to determine whether bypass of the proximal intestine is the component conferring the effects of RYGB on food intake and sweet taste preference using the Endobarrier as a research tool. A nested mechanistic study within a large randomised controlled trial compared the impact of lifestyle modification with vs. without Endobarrier insertion in patients with obesity and T2DM. Forty-seven participants were randomised and assessed at several timepoints using direct and indirect assessments of food intake, food preference and taste function. Patients within the Endobarrier group lost numerically more weight compared to the control group. Using food diaries, our results demonstrated similar reductions of food intake in both groups. There were no significant differences in food preference and sensory, appetitive reward, or consummatory reward domain of sweet taste function between groups or changes within groups. In conclusion, the superior weight loss seen in patients with obesity and T2DM who underwent the Endobarrier insertion was not due to a reduction in energy intake or change in food preferences.

A contribution to the knowledge on the diet and food preferences of Darevskia praticola (Reptilia: Lacertidae)

The Meadow lizard (Darevskia praticola s.l.) is one of the more poorly-studied lizard species in Europe, and no detailed data on its diet is available. We investigated a total of 180 faecal samples of D. praticola s.l. from two locations in Bulgaria, and conducted a comparison between sex and age groups (adult males, adult females, and immatures). In addition, the correlations between the consumed prey and the available resources were also analysed. Food selectivity was analysed by comparing the faecal samples with pit-fall trap samples on the basis of abundance of prey items from particular operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Results indicate that the diet of the Meadow lizard contains mainly arthropods (insects and spiders) and the most abundant prey items belong to Araneae, Auchenorrhyncha, and Coleoptera. According to the used electivity indices none of the OTUs are highly preferred by D. praticola s.l., but Formicidae are the most avoided OTU for all sex/age groups. Differences in food preferences can be found between adults and immatures, while differences among males and females seem to be insignificant. The lack of clear differentiation between males and females could be a result of their similar size and locomotor ability. In conclusion, our results reveal that Darevskia praticola s.l. is a generalist and it shows no food specialization due to its narrow spatial niche.

The Role of the Western Diet and Oral Microbiota in Parkinson's Disease.

The type of diet not only affects the composition of the oral microflora but is also one of the more critical factors associated with an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, PD. This study compared diet preferences and oral microbiota profiles in patients with PD vs. healthy controls. This study compared the oral microbiota composition of 59 patients with PD and 108 healthy controls (without neurodegeneration) using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. According to results, oral microbiota in patients with PD is different compared from healthy controls. In particular, decreased abundance of Proteobacteria, Pastescibacteria, and Tenercutes was observed. The oral cavity of patients with PD was characterized by the high relative abundance of bacteria from the genera Prevotella, Streptococcus, and Lactobaccillus. There were also differences in food preferences between patients with PD and healthy controls, which revealed significantly higher intake of margarine, fish, red meat, cereals products, avocado, and olives in the patients with PD relative to healthy controls. Strong positive and negative correlations between specific food products and microbial taxa were identified.

Роль вкусовых рецепторов T1R в регуляции потребления и метаболизма углеводов у млекопитающих

Taste receptors type 1, T1R, encoded by Tas1 genes play a key role in sweet and amino acid taste perception in vertebrates. Significant differences in food preferences, described in different groups of animals, could be associated with interruption of expression of some genes encoding these proteins. Numerous polymorphisms of these genes were found in mammals, including humans and mice. These polymorphisms entail an increase in the preference and consumption of sweet substances and affect receptor sensitivity. This makes the study of this system highly relevant in light of the current situation with diabetes and obesity. Although T1Rs were originally cloned in taste cells, the subsequent studies have significantly expanded the understanding of their expression and suggested they had a functional role in parts of the body other than the oral cavity. Their expression is found along the digestive tract and in endocrine tissues (in enteroendocrine and absorptive intestinal cells, α and β-cells of pancreatic islet), liver, adipocytes, in brain structures involved in metabolism and nutrition regulation, osteocytes, and this list is constantly expanding. At the same time, metabolic gene effects still remain poorly understood. This review summarizes the latest data showing that T1R receptors not only influence food choices, but are also involved in controlling hormonal responses that regulate carbohydrate intake and metabolism in body tissues and fat accumulation.

Genetic preferences for food

Genetic preferences for food

Association between Food Preferences and Food Habits in a Polish Adolescents' COVID-19 Experience (PLACE-19) Study.

Food preferences are among the most influential factors of food habits in the vulnerable period of adolescence; in addition, gender-dependent differences in food preferences are also observed. The aim of the present study was to analyze differences in food habits between individuals stratified based on their food preferences in a population-based sample of adolescents aged 15–20. The study was conducted within the Polish Adolescents’ COVID-19 Experience (PLACE-19) Study population in a group of 2419 secondary school students who were randomly chosen to participate in the study using a random quota sampling procedure. The food preferences were determined on the basis of a validated Food Preference Questionnaire (FPQ) (which enables assessing preference of vegetables, fruit, meat/fish, dairy, snacks, and starches), whereas food habits were determined on the basis of the Adolescents’ Food Habits Checklist (AFHC) (which enables assessing food purchase, preparation, and consumption habits). The analysis involved three homogenous clusters (‘low-preferring’, ‘hedonists’, and ‘high-preferring’), which were identified using the k-means algorithm. It was found that for a number of the assessed food purchase, preparation, and consumption habits, there were statistically significant differences between the ‘low-preferring’, ‘hedonists’, and ‘high-preferring’ clusters. Within food purchase habits, the food preference influenced frequency of buying pastries/cakes and frequency of eating takeaway meals for all the respondents, while for female respondents, it influenced also choice of desserts in restaurants, and for male respondents, it influenced choosing a low-fat lunch away from home (p < 0.05). Within food preparation habits, the food preference influenced the fat content in desserts at home, the frequency of eating at least one serving of vegetables/salad with an evening meal, the frequency of spreading butter/margarine on bread thinly, and the frequency of having cream on desserts for all the respondents; meanwhile, for female respondents, it also influenced the frequency of avoiding fried foods and the frequency of including chocolate/biscuits in their packed lunch (p < 0.05). Within food consumption habits, the food preference influenced the frequency of eating a dessert/pudding, eating at least one serving of fruit a day, eating at least one serving of vegetables/salad a day, avoiding sausages/burgers, trying to ensure they eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, and frequency of choosing fruit as a snack for all the respondents; meanwhile, for male respondents, it also influenced the frequency of eating sweet snacks and eating at least three servings of fruit most days (p < 0.05). Taking into account that some improper food habits may be typical for the specific clusters, there is an urgent need to analyze and address them for the purposes of public health and to bear in mind that some of those habits are gender-dependent.

Food preferences, food neophobia and chemosensation among adolescents with ADHD

It has been suggested that adolescents diagnosed with ADHD have an unhealthier diet compared to their peers without ADHD. The association between chemosensation (smell and taste) and dietary patterns remains unknown. The aim is to investigate unhealthy food preferences and food neophobic behaviour among adolescents diagnosed with ADHD. Additionally, it is to investigate the relationship between dietary patterns and chemosensory function. We enrolled 36 adolescents with and without ADHD to complete a food item and a food neophobia questionnaire and to undergo chemosensory testing. Adolescents with ADHD performed significantly worse on both chemosensory tests compared to the non-ADHD group. No difference in food preferences nor food neophobia was found between the two groups. Adolescents with ADHD have a lower score on chemosensory tests compared to their peers, suggesting impaired chemosensory function. No differences in dietary preferences nor food neophobia were seen between the two groups.

Causes of Variation in Food Preference in the Netherlands.

Our current society is characterized by an increased availability of industrially processed foods with high salt, fat and sugar content. How is it that some people prefer these unhealthy foods while others prefer more healthy foods? It is suggested that both genetic and environmental factors play a role. The aim of this study was to (1) identify food preference clusters in the largest twin-family study into food preference to date and (2) determine the relative contribution of genetic and environmental factors to individual differences in food preference in the Netherlands. Principal component analysis was performed to identify the preference clusters by using data on food liking/disliking from 16,541 adult multiples and their family members. To estimate the heritability of food preference, the data of 7833 twins were used in structural equation models. We identified seven food preference clusters (Meat, Fish, Fruits, Vegetables, Savory snacks, Sweet snacks and Spices) and one cluster with Drinks. Broad-sense heritability (additive [A] + dominant [D] genetic factors) for these clusters varied between .36 and .60. Dominant genetic effects were found for the clusters Fruit, Fish (males only) and Spices. Quantitative sex differences were found for Meat, Fish and Savory snacks and Drinks. To conclude, our study convincingly showed that genetic factors play a significant role in food preference. A next important step is to identify these genes because genetic vulnerability for food preference is expected to be linked to actual food consumption and different diet-related disorders.

Genetic Variations Associated with Energy Intake and Body Fat Composition in Healthy Korean Adults: A Genome-Wide Association Analysis

Abstract Objectives Genetic variation contributes to individual differences in food preference, dietary habit, and nutrient intake, thus affecting nutritional status. Although studies which showed the relevance between genetic differences and the intake of nutrients such as carotenoid, vitamin E, and fat are available, more studies are needed for implementation of precision nutrition. Objective of the study was to investigate genetic variations that are associated with nutrient intake and taste sensitivity. Methods A total of 100 healthy adults (50 men and 50 women) aged 25–35 y who were free of diseases were recruited. Anthropometric measurements, clinical parameters including CBC, lipid profile, glucose level, and liver function tests, dietary intake data using 3-day food record, and taste sensitivity for salty and sweet tastes were determined. A total of 800,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were analyzed by Theragen Etex using Theragen Precision Medicine Research Array (PMRA) chips. Results A total of 577,164 qualified SNPs were analyzed and three SNPs that might have significant relevance with energy intake (rs75052357, rs1125186, rs73471118) were identified. Carriers of the C allele in rs75052357 (C &amp;gt; T), which is identified in IQGAP1 loci, showed significantly higher fat mass (CC: 16.16 ± 3.52 kg, TC: 14.26 ± 3.58 kg, TT: 12.43 ± 3.83 kg) and higher % body fat (CC: 25.68 ± 5.40%, TC: 22.79 ± 6.10%, TT: 20.60 ± 7.52%) despite a lower energy intake (CC: 1782.2 ± 445.5 kcal, TC: 2212.5 ± 424.1 kcal, TT: 2315.0 ± 892.6 kcal). Carriers of G allele in rs1125186 (G &amp;gt; C) had significantly higher fat mass (CC: 13.34 ± 16.22 kg, CG: 16.22 ± 3.48 kg, GG: 15.67 ± 3.63 kg) in spite of lower energy intake compared with CC carriers (CC: 2222.5 ± 515.9 kcal, CG: 1927.9 ± 452.6 kcal, GG: 1745.7 ± 476.7 kcal). Carriers of T allele in rs73471118 (C &amp;gt; T) had significantly higher energy intake (CC: 1815.5 ± 445.0 kcal, TC: 2726.5 ± 490.6 kcal), while having lower threshold for sweet taste (CC: 8.94 ± 8.51 g/L TC: 0.40 ± 0.00 g/L). Conclusions Novel SNPs showing associations between energy consumption and fat mass or sugar taste sensitivity have been identified. This finding can help developing personalized recommendation for energy intake, however, further studies to delineate the mechanisms are needed. Funding Sources Supported by Seoul National University Research Grant in 2018.