It is now well established that a healthy diet and regular physical activity contribute to healthy aging. The years around retirement have been identified by public authorities as an ideal time to promote these health-promoting behaviors. In 2008, the National Institute for Prevention and Health Education (INPES) conducted the third edition of the Health and Nutrition Barometer, a survey designed to analyze and track perceptions, knowledge, and behaviors regarding diet and physical activity. This article presents the specific characteristics of individuals aged 55 to 75 with regard to dietary habits. The results reveal that perceptions of diet are more health-oriented in this population than among younger people, with poorer knowledge of recommendations regarding fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and the "meat, fish, and eggs" (MFE) group, but better knowledge regarding fish and physical activity. Dietary intake is found to be more health-promoting for fruits and vegetables, fish, and starchy foods. These generally encouraging results are likely to change after age 75, a period that requires further research. [Author’s abstract]