Adolescents’ Preferences for Rice and Sustainable Ingredients: Strategic Implications for Future Culinary Trends

This study examines Korean adolescents’ preferences for rice and sustainable ingredients using 2024 Food Consumption Behavior Survey data (n = 588, aged 13–18). Applying a food-related lifestyle framework, exploratory factor and cluster analyses identified three segments: High-involvement, Convenience-oriented Low-involvement, and Quality and Taste-oriented groups. Results reveal significant differences in rice consumption patterns and interest in domestic, local, and eco-friendly ingredients across these segments. The High-involvement group showed the strongest engagement with sustainable ingredients, while the Convenience-oriented group demonstrated lower interest and reduced rice consumption. These findings emphasize the need for segment-specific culinary strategies that balance sustainability, convenience, and sensory appeal among adolescents as a future consumer. By linking lifestyle segmentation with sustainability-oriented preferences, this research provides strategic insights for rice-based menu innovation and future family-oriented dining trends, contributing to a deeper understanding of adolescent food behavior in a shifting culinary landscape.