FOOD LITERACY AND DIETARY BEHAVIOR: YOUTH PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Background:

Advancement in technology and globalization has changed the framework and meaning of food. Varied social, economic, environmental conditions and globalized practices reflected the skills and practices that how people understand food nutritional knowledge, perceptions, practices, and decision-making for healthy food choices to maintain health and well-being.

Material and Methods:

By using qualitative research design, the study explored the concept of food literacy about the overall health understanding and practice. By using stratified random sampling, the sample was selected from the Institute of Social and Cultural Studies, University of the Punjab, Lahore. In-depth interviews were conducted.

Results:

The study shows that students have healthy eating behaviour. It was difficult, especially living in hostels to acquire the nutritious foods and their use. Findings indicate that students have poor knowledge about nutrition. Due to time constraints, purchase available low-price food.

Conclusion:

Poor cooking skills tend towards readymade food which affects food choices, selection and consumption. With the availability of spicy and fried foods at comparatively low prices students overlooked health and hygiene.