WHAT DO COLLEGE-STUDENTS EAT - FOOD SELECTION AND MEAL PATTERN

Data are limited on food selections of young adults. This study was un dertaken to examine the eating practices of college students relevant to improving nutrition and health education programs. Dietary records (n=1912) were used to determine the frequency of meals skipped and spe cific foods selected by male and female students in different seasons between Fall, 1990 and Summer 1991. Twenty-two percent, 8%, and 5% of the students skipped breakfast, lunch, and dinner, respectively; 80% o f the students snacked at least once a day. There were no significant differences in frequency of meals skipped and snacks consumed among se asons or between man and women. Forty foods consumed most frequently f or meals and snacks included various carbonated beverages but few vege tables and fruits. Skimmed milk, 2% milk and chicken or turkey were, a mong the top 40 foods selected by both genders whereas whole milk and higher-fat meats were not, Men consumed more high calorie and high fat foods more fast foods but fewer vegetables than women. These findings suggest that health promotion for young adults in college should addr ess importance of eating vegetables and fruits with less frequent cons umption of carbonated beverages and high fat combination dishes. The m essage for men may need to differ for women.