The first COVID-19 lockdown reveals an ambivalent relation of French parents with food pleasure: the struggle to find a balance

International audienceIn France, a first COVID-19 lockdown took place from March-May 2020. Using an online survey including three open-ended questions, this study explored parents' experiences regarding changes in their family's eating behaviors during this lockdown. French parents (n = 498, 71% mothers) of young children were invited to describe which food-related changes they (1) perceived as positive during the lockdown, (2) perceived as negative, and (3) would like to maintain after the lockdown. A thematic analysis revealed that parents appreciated the choice of more local, fresh and high-quality foods, the time to prepare foods (homemade dishes, new recipes) and cooking and eating with the family. In contrast, some parents highlighted a burden imposed by the increased food preparation at home. They also described an “overconsumption” of pleasurable foods (or the temptation to do so), and weight concerns. Parents would like to continue spending more time together around food and maintain their choice of local, fresh foods, but doubt the feasibility. Interestingly, the results revealed an ambivalent attitude toward food pleasure: the sensory/commensal pleasure of eating versus the overconsumption, weight concerns and feelings of stress/guilt. They also highlighted gender differences: mothers suffered, for example, more from additional cooking duties than fathers. This study reveals intimate perceptions of the impact of the lockdown on eating habits, uncovering underlying conflicts