Food Environments in University Dorms: 20,000 Calories per Dorm Room and Counting
published online 09 April 2009.
Background
Few young adults meet national dietary recommendations. Although home food availability likely has important influences on dietary intake, little research has examined this issue among young adults. The objective of this research was to conduct a detailed, observational assessment of food and beverages available in college-student dormitory rooms.
Methods
Dormitory-residing students (n=100) were recruited from a large, public university. Research staff completed a detailed inventory of food and beverages in the dorm rooms, including nutrient contents and purchasing sources. Data were collected and analyzed in 2008.
Results
The mean number of food and beverage items per participant was 47 (range: 0–208), with 4% of participants not having any food or beverages. More than 70% of students had each of the following types of items: salty snacks, cereal or granola bars, main dishes, desserts or candy, and sugar-sweetened beverages. Fewer students had low-calorie beverages, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, tea/coffee, and 100% fruit/vegetable juice. The average number of calories per dorm room was 22,888. Items purchased by parents had a higher calorie and fat content than items purchased by students.
Conclusions
Findings indicate that students maintain a wide array of food and beverages in their dormitory rooms. Parents purchased a substantial amount of food for their children's dormitory rooms, and these food items were less healthful than the food that students purchased. The foods observed in college students' living spaces may have an important impact on eating habits. Overall, young adult–oriented obesity prevention efforts are needed, and improving the various facets of campus food environments may mark an important component of such strategies.
Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Melissa C. Nelson, PhD, RD, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S. 2nd Street, WBOB Suite 300, Minneapolis MN 55454-1015
ABSTRACT