What Are Secondary School Students Really Eating? A Look at Packed Food Consumption and Awareness

 What Are Secondary School Students Really Eating? A Look at Packed Food Consumption and Awareness

Nandhana P V

B. Ed 2 nd Year Student, Avila College of Education, Edacochin

Abstract

In recent years, the consumption of packed food items has increased significantly among school students. The present study aims to examine the consumption pattern of packed food items and the level of awareness regarding their health impacts among secondary school students. The study also attempts to understand students’ preferences, frequency of consumption, time of intake, awareness about nutrition labels, and knowledge of the harmful effects of excessive consumption. A descriptive survey method was adopted for the study. Data were collected from secondary school students using a structured questionnaire consisting of close-ended questions. The collected data were analysed using percentage analysis.

The findings reveal that a majority of students consume packed food items three to four times a week, with some consuming them daily. Biscuits and bakery products were found to be the most preferred items, and evening was identified as the most common time of consumption. Although most students are aware that packed foods contain high levels of sugar, salt, and fat and may cause health problems, only a small percentage regularly check nutrition labels before purchase. The study concludes that while awareness about the health effects of packed food is relatively high, consistent healthy practices are lacking. The study highlights the need for effective awareness programmes and parental and school guidance to promote healthier eating habits among students.

Key Terms: Packed food consumption, Consumption pattern, Nutrition awareness, Secondary school students, Health impact, Food habits, Nutrition labels, Processed food, Healthy eating habits, Adolescent health.

Introduction

In recent years, the consumption of packed and processed food items has increased among secondary school students. Easy availability, attractive advertisements, and convenience have made snacks such as biscuits, chips, and bakery products popular among students. These foods are often preferred over fresh home-made meals due to their taste and ready-to-eat nature.

However, excessive consumption of packed foods may negatively affect health, as many of these items contain high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. During adolescence, proper nutrition is essential for growth and development. Therefore, understanding students’ consumption patterns and their awareness of the health effects of packed foods is important. This study aims to examine the frequency of packed food consumption and the level of awareness among secondary school students to promote healthier eating habits.

Objectives of the study

 1.To examine how often Secondary school students consume different types of packed Food.

2.To understand the awareness level of nutritional value.

3.To analyze the level of awareness among secondary school students about the impact of packed food item consumption on their health.

4.To suggest possible measures to reduce packed food consumption among Secondary School students.

Hypothesis of the study

1.There is a significant level of consumption of different types of packed food among Secondary School Students.

2. Secondary School Students have a moderate level of awareness about the nutritional value of Packed food items.

3.Secondary school Students are aware of the health issues caused by the consumption of packed food items.

4.Secondary school Students are not aware of the health issues caused by the consumption of packed food items.

Methodology

The present study was conducted to examine the consumption pattern of packed food items and the level of awareness regarding their health impact among secondary school students. A descriptive survey method was adopted for the study. The sample consisted of secondary school students selected using a convenient sampling technique. The study was limited to a specific school area, and the respondents were chosen to represent students of that level.

Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of close-ended questions related to frequency of consumption, preferred packed food items, time of consumption, awareness about nutrition labels, and knowledge of health effects. The questionnaire was distributed directly to the students, and their responses were collected and compiled. The collected data were analysed using simple percentage analysis and presented in tables for interpretation. Based on the analysis, conclusions were drawn regarding students’ consumption patterns and awareness levels.

 Analysis of the data

I.Analysis based on Packed Food Consumption Patterns Among Secondary School Students

The study shows that more than half of the students (56.86%) consume packed food 3–4 times a week, while 21.57% consume it daily. Biscuits and bakery items are the most preferred packed food products, and evening is the most common time of consumption.

This indicates that packed food has become a regular part of students’ daily diet. The high frequency of consumption suggests strong preference and easy accessibility.




II. Analysis based on Awareness Regarding Nutritional Value and Food Labels

A majority of students (80.39%) are aware that packed foods contain nutritional information on labels. However, only 7.84% always check the label, while most students check it only occasionally.

Although awareness about nutrition labels is high, consistent practice of reading and understanding them is low. This shows a gap between knowledge and behaviour.




III. Analysis based on Students’ Awareness About the Health Impact of Packed Food Consumption.

The findings reveal that 94.12% of students agree that excessive consumption of packed food can cause health problems. Most students also know that packed foods contain high levels of sugar, salt, and fat.

Students have good awareness about the harmful effects of packed foods. However, frequent consumption continues despite this knowledge.



IV. Analysis based on Measures to Reduce Packed Food Consumption Among Secondary School Students.

About 70.59% of students are willing to reduce their packed food intake. Students suggested parental guidance, healthy school canteens, and awareness programmes as effective measures.

The positive attitude of students indicates that proper guidance and supportive school and home environments can help reduce packed food consumption.




Conclusion

• A majority of students consume packed food 3–4 times a week, and some consume it daily.

• Biscuits and bakery items are the most commonly preferred packed food items.

• Most students consume packed food during the evening time.

• The majority are aware that packed foods contain nutritional information on labels.

• Only a small percentage of students regularly check nutrition labels before consumption.

• Most students know that packed foods contain high levels of sugar, salt, and fat.

• A large number of students agree that excessive consumption of packed food can cause health problems such as obesity and digestive issues.

• Parents and teachers are the main sources of awareness about the health effects of packed food.

• Most students believe that fresh home-made food is healthier than packed food.

• A majority of students are willing to reduce their packed food intake for better health.

• Students suggested parental guidance, healthy school canteens, and awareness programmes as important measures to reduce packed food consumption.

Educational Implications of the Study

1.Teachers should regularly discuss topics related to balanced diet, harmful effects of excessive sugar, salt, and fat, and the importance of reading nutrition labels.

2.Schools should implement healthy canteen policies by limiting the sale of unhealthy packed foods and promoting nutritious alternatives.

3.Health awareness programmes, workshops, and campaigns should be organised periodically to reinforce students’ knowledge about healthy food choices.

4.Parents should be educated through parent–teacher meetings about the importance of monitoring their children’s eating habits.

5.Students should be encouraged to develop critical thinking skills to analyse food advertisements and make informed decisions.

6.School authorities can collaborate with health professionals to conduct regular health check-ups and nutrition counselling.

7.Educational planners should design special adolescent health education modules focusing on diet and lifestyle diseases.

8.Community involvement and public awareness campaigns should be promoted to support healthy eating practices beyond the school environment.

References

• World Health Organization. (2023). Healthy diet. https://www.who.int

• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. (2023). Eat Right India initiative. https://www.fssai.gov.in

• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. (2022). National guidelines on adolescent health. Government of India.

• UNICEF. (2021). Improving adolescent nutrition. https://www.unicef.org

• Food and Agriculture Organization. (2022). Food labelling and consumer awareness. https://www.fao.org

• NCERT. (2022). Science textbook for Class IX. New Delhi: National Council of Educational Research and Training.


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