EATING HABITS AND CONSUMPTION OF ULTRA-PROCESSED AND FAST FOODS, BY UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AT A COLLEGE IN THE INTERIOR OF SÃO PAULO

Abstract

In recent decades, economic and social changes have altered dietary patterns around the world, making nutritional imbalances an important issue in the public health debate. Brazil is in a remarkable nutritional scenario, with a drop in malnutrition rates and an increase in overweight and obesity rates, marked by the high consumption of ultra-processed foods. University students prefer ultra-processed foods and fast foods, caused by a lack of time due to academic activities. This habit tends to persist throughout the course of higher education and can continue for the rest of one's life. The objective of this research was to evaluate the consumption of ultra-processed foods and fast foods among university students at a college in the interior of São Paulo. They were evaluated through an online “survey” questionnaire hosted on Google Forms, containing 39 questions about these students' eating habits. This study found that, although many university students maintain good habits, there is a significant prevalence in the consumption of ultra-processed foods and fast foods, which highlights the need for interventions aimed at promoting a more balanced and nutritious diet among university students.