Associated factors in adherence to plant-based diets in university students

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the association among plant-based eating patterns and motivations, difficulties and sociodemographic data in university students. Methods Quantitative research with a cross-sectional design with 815 university students. Collection was carried out using a structured questionnaire. For data analysis, the Chi-square test, T-test and Anova were used based on the Kolmogorov Smirnov normality test, at a significance level of p<0.05, in addition to descriptive statistics with the aid of the free software PSPP. Results Nine point six percent of academics follow plant-based diets, and their adherence is associated (p<0.05) with a left-wing political spectrum, pro-environmental behaviors, concern for animal rights, boycotts of the meat industry and non- like the taste of meat. Omnivores had more difficulty adhering to and maintaining these diets (p<0.00) as well as in food preparation, self- control over meat consumption and eating outside the home. Conclusion Enabling behavioral changes in the population in order to promote healthy and sustainable eating should be a priority for public policies and the private sector, considering the impact of the food system on climate change.