Challenges, Opportunities, and Motivators for Developing and Applying Food Literacy in a University Setting: A Qualitative Study

Abstract Background Evolving norms and complex food environments may require new skill sets and mind-sets to maintain a healthy diet. Food literacy acknowledges the influence of external factors in shaping a person's development and application of the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for healthy eating. Food literacy among college students is not well understood; however, higher education presents a unique opportunity for promoting food literacy. Objective This study aimed to identify a range of challenges, opportunities, and motivators for students to develop and apply food literacy in a university setting. Design Eleven focus groups were conducted with four student subpopulations: three with residential undergraduates, three with off-campus undergraduates, three with graduate students, and two with students using food security resources. Participants/setting Eighty-two students enrolled at a large, diverse, public university in an urban setting in California. Analysis Guided by an ecological perspective, transcripts were analyzed using an integrated approach. This involved an inductive development of themes and deductive organization of themes according to research aims. Results We developed a novel model as a starting point for understanding and addressing the dynamic challenges, opportunities, and motivators for students to develop and apply food literacy. Challenges include the physical food environment, confusing information, capacity and resource constraints, and social tensions. Opportunities include media and the Internet, academic courses, peer learning, campus resources, and dining halls. Motivators include health, social responsibility, personal development, and enjoyment and bonding. Conclusions Students view college as an appropriate time to develop food literacy and the university as a trusted partner. However, efforts to promote food literacy should acknowledge perceived challenges and varying motivations for engaging with food.