Older Adults’ Perceptions of the 2019 Canada’s Food Guide: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Purpose: Major changes were made to Canada’s Food Guide (CFG) in 2019. This study aimed to understand the perceptions of older adults toward this newest version. Methods: Older adults were invited to participate via newsletters sent to older adults and retirees’ organizations in the Province of Quebec. Participants completed an online survey about their baseline familiarity with the 2019 CFG using a 5-point Likert scale and took part in an individual semi-structured online interview, which explored their perceptions toward the 2019 CFG. A thematic qualitative analysis of the interview transcripts was performed. Results: Fifty-eight older adults (>65 years, 30 women, 28 men, including 19 consumers and 39 non-consumers of plant-based protein (PBP) foods) participated in the study. Older adults were mostly familiar with the 2019 CFG and had a positive perception of its features. They appreciated the design, proposed recipes, and healthy eating recommendations. Perceptions about the three food groups were mixed, mainly regarding the decreased emphasis on dairy products. Some appreciated that animal proteins were less prominent, while others raised issues on how to integrate PBP into their diet. Perceptions appeared to be influenced by sex and PBP consumption. Conclusion: Older adults in the Province of Quebec view most of the 2019 CFG recommendations positively. Our observations may be useful to dietitians and public health practitioners when developing strategies to improve adherence.