Christine Brombach, Justus-Liebig-University, Institute of Nutritional Science, Nutrition Education and Consumer Behaviour, Senckenbergstr. 3, 35390 Giessen, Germany. Tel (+)49-641-99-39085. Fax (+)49-641-99-39089 o e-mail: Christine.Brombach@ernaehrung.unigiessen.de

Abstract: Which biographical factors are important for shaping present today eating behaviour. Is eating behaviour maintained throughout life, what are likely causes for changes. In a qualitative study on eating and drinking in the life course, 60 women aged 64 to 94 living independently in their homes were interviewed using semi-structured biographical methods focussing on eating and drinking in the life course. Socialisation of eating in childhood was in all participants either conservative/autoritarian or liberal. Following socialisation and life course 4 different "eating types" with common present nutrition behaviour were found. The eating type was changed only in case of marriage if the partner was another eating type, in case of illness or in case of fear of health implications. For improving current dietary practices, health and nutrition professionals should recognize the contribution of biographical factors as well as eating types for present nutrition behaviour.

Keywords: Elderly women, nutrition behaviour, biography, life course.