Background
Few young adults meet national dietary recommendations. Although home food availability
likely has important influences on dietary intake, little research has examined this
issue among young adults. The objective of this research was to conduct a detailed,
observational assessment of food and beverages available in college-student dormitory
rooms.
Methods
Dormitory-residing students (n=100) were recruited from a large, public university. Research staff completed a detailed
inventory of food and beverages in the dorm rooms, including nutrient contents and
purchasing sources. Data were collected and analyzed in 2008.
Results
The mean number of food and beverage items per participant was 47 (range: 0–208),
with 4% of participants not having any food or beverages. More than 70% of students
had each of the following types of items: salty snacks, cereal or granola bars, main
dishes, desserts or candy, and sugar-sweetened beverages. Fewer students had low-calorie
beverages, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, tea/coffee, and 100% fruit/vegetable
juice. The average number of calories per dorm room was 22,888. Items purchased by
parents had a higher calorie and fat content than items purchased by students.
Conclusions
Findings indicate that students maintain a wide array of food and beverages in their
dormitory rooms. Parents purchased a substantial amount of food for their children's
dormitory rooms, and these food items were less healthful than the food that students
purchased. The foods observed in college students' living spaces may have an important
impact on eating habits. Overall, young adult–oriented obesity prevention efforts
are needed, and improving the various facets of campus food environments may mark
an important component of such strategies.
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: April 09, 2009
Identification
Copyright
© 2009 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
