Association between Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Nutrition and Food Labels among Selected Higher Educational Institution Students in Klang Valley

Abstract

Background: Nutrition information on food labels guides consumers to decide on purchasing healthier food choices. However, apart from nutrition information, several other factors may influence a purchase. This study aims to determine the association between students’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among tertiary students on nutrition and food labels.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 185 students from three tertiary institutions within Klang Valley completed an online survey. Self-administered questionnaires on sociodemographic profiles and KAP questions, available in Malay and English, were distributed. Association between KAP was determined using Spearman's Rho test, while multiple linear regression was used to assess predictors of KAP scores.

Results: Mean body mass index (BMI) of respondents were 20.8 kg/m². The total mean score for knowledge on food labels was 8.93, followed by attitude and practice with 3.86 and 3.11, respectively. There was a significant correlation between attitude and practice (p<0.005). Nutrient and total calorie information on food labels influenced purchases, with 56.3% of students reported looking at the total calorie content, followed by 55.7% and 49.5% checking on sugar and fats, respectively. In addition, other factors such as expiry date (60.9%) and price (59.9%) also influenced purchases. Overall, tertiary students have a positive attitude on food selection, but male students have better knowledge levels than females. However, female students interpret food labelling effectively compared to male students.

Conclusion: Despite having good knowledge and attitude towards nutrition, students were still making poor choices. A more extensive range of healthier food options and targeted healthy eating campaigns may empower students to choose more nutritious foods.