Journal of Advances in Food Science & Technology

This review explores educational interventions aimed at improving food literacy across various populations and settings, identifying best practices within this evolving field. It synthesizes current literature to define food literacy and analyse effective intervention strategies, target groups, and achieved outcomes. Knowledge of nutrition and the abilities required to successfully navigate the food system and make wise dietary decisions are all included in food literacy, which are essential for promoting health and well-being. Interventions often focus on vulnerable groups, such as university students and those facing food insecurity, showing positive impacts on food literacy and dietary habits. Notably, interventions grounded in a theoretical food literacy framework demonstrate greater effectiveness. Key targeted components include nutrition knowledge, food label interpretation, food selection, and consumption practices. The review examines diverse educational approaches, from school-based programs to adult and family interventions, highlighting the benefits of combining formal and non-formal education. It identifies gaps in the literature, such as the limited application of comprehensive food literacy theories in intervention design and the lack of research on long-term effects and implementation across different socioeconomic groups. By analysing strengths and limitations, this review provides insights into designing and implementing effective educational interventions to enhance food literacy and improve dietary behaviours and health outcomes.