Abstract
Food literacy plays a critical role in shaping the dietary behaviors and health outcomes of young adults, particularly students navigating the transition to independent living. This study investigates the level of food literacy among undergraduate students in Germany, explores how it influences actual eating behavior, and identifies where interventions should be targeted. The practical relevance lies in promoting students’ ability to plan, select, prepare and eat healthy food, while the theoretical contribution includes refining the measurement of self-perceived food literacy and clarifying the role of its individual dimensions. Situated within the fields of public health, nutritional education, and behavioral science, this research contributes to a better understanding of health-related competencies. Using a quantitative approach, we analyzed 905 responses from students collected in 08/2024. Statistical methods included t-tests, chi-squared tests, and regression analysis. Findings reveal that 54% of respondents demonstrate inadequate or problematic food literacy, with the most critical deficits in comparing healthy alternatives, smart snacking, and meal planning or social and conscious eating. High food literacy is positively associated with healthier eating behaviors, such as lower frequenting the university canteen or avoiding ready-made meals. We developed targeted interventions, including cooking workshops tailored to student needs. Our results confirm that self-perceived food significantly shapes students’ eating habits. However, while average levels do not deviate far from the general population, a key challenge lies in engaging students with the lowest food literacy and addressing varying levels of interest - those who stand to benefit most but are least inclined to participate.
Presenters
Michaela NueblingProfessor, Department Head, Faculty of Business Administration, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University, Ravensburg, Germany Thomas Dobbelstein
a) hon. research Prof. b) full Prof., a) Durban University of Technology b) Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
FOOD LITERACY, YOUNG ADULTS, SELF-PERCEIVED FOOD LITERACY SCALE
