University Meal Plan Subscription Is Not Associated with Higher Skin Carotenoid Levels

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Dietary Behavior Research
• Higher Education Health

Background:

• College students often have suboptimal fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake.
• University meal plans are a key factor influencing student dietary patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between meal plan subscription and F&V intake in college students.
• To explore student perceptions regarding F&V consumption within university dining environments.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study (0-6 months) with 93 first- and second-year college students.
• Quantitative F&V intake assessment using Veggie Meter and qualitative exploration via focus group discussions (FGDs).
• Statistical analysis included Wilcoxon signed-rank and Mann-Whitney U tests; FGD transcripts underwent thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• No significant changes in Veggie Meter scores were observed from baseline to 6 months, neither within nor between groups.
• Focus group discussions identified common barriers to F&V intake, including sensory appeal, knowledge, cost, and limited appealing options, regardless of meal plan status.

Conclusions:

• Meal plan subscription alone did not correlate with improved F&V intake among college students.
• Recommendations include enhancing university meal plans to increase F&V accessibility, appeal, and affordability to promote healthier dietary habits.