Cross-national differences in child food neophobia: a comparison of five European countries

摘要: Abstract Food neophobia (FN) has been extensively explored, especially in children. However, very few studies have compared this food behavior children from different countries. Considering the clear diversity between European countries feeding practices and consumption, it is important to deepen understanding of cross-national differences child FN. The aim study was explore compare FN five (Finland, Italy, Spain, Sweden UK) using a scale specifically designed for Five hundred twenty-nine (54% girls) aged 9–12 years were recruited schools each country asked complete Italian Child Neophobia Scale (ICFNS, Laureati, Bergamaschi et al., 2015), which translated into respective language. Parents (n ≈ 300) completed consumption frequency questionnaire their child, provided background information. Reliability tool assessed through internal consistency temporal stability. Total 0.76. When calculated by country, satisfactory (Cronbach’s alpha >0.70) all negatively associated fruit vegetable liking wholegrain biscuits, timing introduction semi-solid food. There small but significant with British Swedish being most neophobic significantly higher than Finnish children, who neophilic. Results indicate that can be successfully used tested age range 9–12 years. useful measure effects interventions aiming at changing behaviors, such as reducing FN, among