Associated Factors Influencing Snack Consumption Among Female Adolescents in Saveh, Iran: An Application of the BASNEF Model.

Background: Adolescents, especially girls, often consume unhealthy snacks, affecting their health. This study applied the BASNEF model to identify factors influencing healthy and unhealthy snack consumption among female adolescents in Saveh, Iran. Methods: In the spring of 2020, 395 high school students in Saveh, Iran, who were selected by multi-stage sampling method, participated in this cross-sectional survey. A validated three-part questionnaire encompassing demographic data, snack consumption habits, and BASNEF model constructs was used to gather data. SPSS (version 20.0) was used for the analyses, including descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The BASNEF model explained 27% of the variance in healthy snack consumption behaviors and 21% in unhealthy snack consumption behaviors. Among the variables in the BASNEF model, enabling factors (B=0.230, P<0.001) emerged as the most substantial contributors to healthy snack consumption, emphasizing the significance of accessible resources and supportive environments. In contrast, subjective norms (B=0.216, P<0.001) were the most influential for unhealthy snack consumption, reflecting the impact of social pressure and perceived expectations from peers or family members. These findings underscored the role of both structural factors and social influences in shaping adolescents' snack choices. Conclusions: The BASNEF model partially explained snack consumption behaviors among adolescents. The findings highlighted the need for tailored educational interventions that address enabling factors to promote healthy snacks and target social norms to reduce unhealthy snack consumption, ultimately fostering better dietary habits in this population.