A Qualitative Study on Factors that Influence Students’ Food Choices

Background: Few adolescents are eating recommended amounts of healthful food items at school. The purpose of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of participating students' perception of their school menu, determine what influences their food choices, and solicit suggestions for improving the meals served in their school cafeteria. Methods: Twelve focus groups among a total of 80 students were conducted among 7th to 12th grade students in school classrooms in the Lincoln Parish School District in Louisiana. Five focus groups were conducted with African-American students, five with White students, and two with both races combined. Students were asked about factors that influence their food choices and where they get nutrition knowledge. Responses were organized according to common themes and patterns and were guided by an ecological model. Results: Multiple levels of influence on students' food choices were indicated, including taste, food appearance, the name of the food and/or familiarity with the food, cultural preferences, and perceived food safety. Students reported receiving little nutrition knowledge from school. Conclusions: To promote healthy food choices in schools, school food service staff should consider offering taste testing sessions for new foods; improve food presentation by making food appealing; ensure food is cooked properly and monitor workers adherence to food safety standards, alleviate long lines during lunch periods and incorporate cultural practices such as seasoning or cooking methods. Nutrition education could be integrated into school curriculum and at the point-of-purchase to enhance these students' nutrition knowledge.