Nutritional habits comparison of the baby boomer, X, Y, and Z generations located at a private college in Mugla, Türkiye

Abstract

The present study aimed to reveal intergenerational differences in the nutritional habits of the baby boomer, X, Y, and Z generations at a private college in Mugla, Türkiye. The study population included the students of the TED Bodrum College in Mugla province in the 2021-2022 academic year, including 311 participants: baby boomers (74), X (66), Y (43), and Z (128) generations. An online questionnaire was used to compare the eating habits among the generations. The data were evaluated using SPSS software. Most of the generations believed in healthy eating. Physical image and social media mainly influence the healthy eating habits of the Z generation. The baby boomers and X generations mostly skipped lunch, while the Y and Z generations skipped breakfast. Baby boomers, X, and Y generations mostly prefer healthy foods; however, the Z generation attaches importance to tasty foods. Z generation's interest in nutrition mostly concerns their physical appearance, not their health. Nutritional knowledge must be strengthened, particularly among young generations, and nutrition education programs need to be better supported by the government and educational sectors.