Nutritional habits comparison of the baby boomer, X, Y, and Z generations located at a private college in Muğla, 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 Muğla, Türkiye. The study population included the students of the TED Bodrum College in Muğla 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.

Sustainable and Healthy Eating Behaviors and Environmental Literacy of Generations X, Y and Z with the Same Ancestral Background: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

“…The collective experiences of individuals exposed to analogous historical and social contexts have played a pivotal role in influencing their lifestyles and dietary behaviors across their lifespans, contributing to the emergence of distinct dietary habits among various generations [1][2][3]. In a study conducted by Zeren et al [4], it was observed that individuals who are members of different generations have different nutritional behaviors; Generations X and Y prefer a healthier nutritional perspective; however, Generation Z exhibits a hedonistic approach to eating habits. Although the nutritional knowledge of Generation Z is higher than other generations, it is stated that their interest in nutrition is more related to their physical appearance.…”