food adaptation Iranian in Italia

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the dietary patterns pf Iranian migrants living in Veneto region, Italy. Its principal object is to comprehend the process of adaptation to the local food culture among these individuals and identify the factors influencing their food choices. The outcomes underscore the impact of the migrants’ cultural heritage on their dietary habits. Additionally, the study unveils that while Iranian migrants uphold certain traditional dietary customs, they also embrace elements of local Italian cuisine. Moreover, among the challenges posed by contemporary global changes such as food scarcity and biodiversity loss, the study conducted twenty-five semi-structured interviews with Iranian migrants in Veneto region between December 2023 and April 2024. The research specifically focused on opinions regarding vegetable consumption and perceptions of health benefits. Among the participants, including two restaurant owners, the study discovered that culinary applications and taste evaluation of traditional vegetables are deeply intertwined with cultural and biological factors. Notably, individuals’ sensory experiences significantly influence their adjustment to the host country. Moreover, the study underscores difference in flavor between vegetables grown in Iran and those cultivated in Italy.