College Students' Perceived Differences Between the Terms Real Meal, Meal, and Snack

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Behavioral Science
• Health Education

Background:

• Understanding dietary terminology is crucial for effective health communication.
• College students' perceptions of food terms may influence their eating behaviors.
• Existing research lacks clarity on how young adults define terms like 'real meal,' 'meal,' and 'snack.'

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively and quantitatively assess college students' perceptions of the terms 'real meal,' 'meal,' and 'snack.'
• To explore the differences in how students define these common food-related terms.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study design was employed, utilizing an 11-item online survey.
• The survey was administered to 628 ethnically diverse college students across two university campuses.
• Data analysis involved independent coding, reconciliation, and statistical methods including means, frequencies, Pearson chi-square, and t-tests.

Main Results:

• Over half of students perceived a difference between a 'real meal' and a 'meal.'
• A significant majority (97.6%) differentiated between a 'meal' and a 'snack.'
• Students defined a 'real meal' as nutritious, healthy, and aligned with dietary recommendations, contrasting with 'meal' which was broadly defined as anything edible.

Conclusions:

• The term 'real meal' holds a distinct, positive connotation related to healthy eating among college students.
• Nutrition educators can leverage the term 'real meal' in campaigns to promote healthier food choices.
• This research provides insights into student vernacular that can inform public health messaging.