Haruko Yamaguchi

Ensuring a healthy and satisfying diet is an important issue in Japanese dietary practices. This study aimed to identify the components of current dietary satisfaction using a questionnaire survey and factor analysis. The correlation between dietary satisfaction and dietary and nutritional intake statuses to achieve a healthy and satisfying dietary life was examined. Additionally, we discussed future issues to include not only consumers but also food providers based on our results. This online survey included 1,043 individuals aged 15–69. As dietary satisfaction is influenced by various factors related to eating habits, gender and age were analyzed in the survey. The results revealed that food satisfaction comprised of seven factors, namely, “convenience,” “dietary environment,” “variety,” “preference,” “healthiness and safety,” “eating together” and “physiological sufficiency.” Among all, “preference” was the most significant factor in food satisfaction, while “healthiness and safety” ranked lowest. “Convenience” tended to decrease while “healthiness and safety” increased with age. Notably, “convenience” was a key factor for all genders and ages except for women in their 40s and 60s, whereas “healthiness and safety” was emphasized mainly by men in their 30s and 50s and women over 30. Correlation analyses with dietary statuses revealed a negative association between “convenience” and “dietary balance,” indicating the need for strategies to promote a healthy diet through convenient meal options.