INTRODUCTION: Gender differences in eating habits and protein consumption patterns are determined by cultural, socio-economic, and behavioural factors. Men tend to consume more meat, while women prefer plant-based proteins
however, the impact of these choices on body composition remains unclear. OBJECTIVES: This study explores gender differences in protein consumption and the influence of socioeconomic status on dietary choices, evaluating their potential association with body composition parameters, including fat mass (FM%) and fat-free mass (FFM%). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1708 Italian adults (721 males, 987 females). Food intake was assessed using a validated 7-day food diary. Participants were classified as non-consumers, low consumers, or high consumers according to the median intake of each protein source. Body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. RESULTS: Meat and processed meat consumption was significantly higher in men ( CONCLUSIONS: Gender differences in protein consumption persist across socioeconomic levels and are related to body composition. Meat consumption is culturally linked to masculinity, whereas plant-based proteins are more commonly consumed by women. Understanding these dietary patterns can inform targeted nutritional interventions that promote balanced and sustainable diets.