ArticleJournal of human nutrition and dietetics : the official journal of the British Dietetic Association2026
Exploring Eating Patterns and Cooking Habits Among Emerging Adult College Students to Inform a Pilot Meal Kit Program.
Article in Journal of human nutrition and dietetics : the official journal of the British Dietetic Association, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
introductionEmerging adult college students often experience poor diet quality (DQ) and rely heavily on ultra-processed foods (UPFs), such as sugary beverages, salty snacks, sweet snacks, and other calorie-dense, convenience foods. Meal kits, which provide pre-portioned ingredients and simple recipes, may offer a practical strategy to support healthier eating among emerging adults, yet their relevance and feasibility in college settings remain poorly understood. This study aims to assess the health behaviors, needs, and preferences of the target college student population to inform the development and feasibility of a pilot meal kit program.
methodsThis exploratory, community-informed research used a multi-method approach implemented in two phases: (1) an electronic survey of undergraduate students assessing sociodemographics, eating patterns, and meal preparation habits, and (2) virtual focus groups exploring protein intake, cooking behaviors, and desired meal-kit features. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and logistic regression models. Qualitative data were coded using inductive thematic analysis.
resultsStudents (N = 501) demonstrated low DQ (sHEI = 47.7 ± 10.0/100), and 33.7% reported low or very low food security. Higher UPF intake (OR = 1.14, 95% CI [1.02, 1.25], p = 0.015), more frequent cooking (OR = 1.31, 95% CI [1.02, 1.70], p = 0.037), and greater food insecurity (OR = 1.08, 95% CI [1.003, 1.16], p = 0.042) significantly predicted interest in meal kits, although effect sizes were small (Nagelkerke R
conclusionEmerging adult college students face numerous barriers to healthy eating. Many view meal kits as a practical way to access convenient, nutritious meals. Affordable, culturally and economically tailored programs may help improve DQ and reduce reliance on UPFs. Findings support pilot testing a campus-based meal-kit program.
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