Determining Food Choice Motivator And Associated Factors Of Female Boarding School Students

Abstract

Introduction: Adolescence is a notable period of physical and psychological development. It is crucial to understand the reason behind their food choices to promote optimal nutrition and well-being, especially among girls.
Objectives: This study aimed to explore food choice motive among boarder students and to examine its associated factors.
Methods: Validated food choice questionnaire (FCQ) and nutritional knowledge questionnaire were used in this paper and pencil survey of 171 female students. Anthropometrics measurement was done by nutritionist.
Results: Student’s median of age was 16 years old. Health and religion, comfort, weight control, familiarity, and price and convenience motive were considered important for the students by order. Nutritional knowledge positively associated with health and religion motive. Inversed associations were observed between body mass index (BMI) and comfort motive, and BMI and price and convenience motive.
Conclusions: Health and religion food choice motive was emphasized by boarder students with the influence of basic nutrition literacy. Nutritional status derived personal motive. Future research may investigate further relationship between food choice motivator and the actual food consumption of the students.