A study of the habits and food waste production of young university students

Introduction: the modernization of society has brought about a series of changes in the dietary habits and practice of physical exercise in the population, as well as a greater generation of food waste in homes. Objective: to assess food waste at home and to evaluate the eating habits and lifestyles of university students. Material and methods: data were collected through a structured, self-administered online survey in which the eating habits (frequency questionnaire) and level of physical activity (IPAQ-Short) of the participating subjects were measured, as well as the waste from main meals through a photographic record of three days according to the Comstock method, visual estimation. Results: most of the students do not comply with the frequency recommendations for consumption of whole grain, fruits, vegetables, nuts and dried fruits, although the practice of physical activity is high, specifically moderate. The total average of waste as assessed with the Comstock scale corresponds to a percentage of 14.50 %, mainly avoidable waste. Meat was the most consumed food group as a source of protein, as well as the most wasteful along with vegetables. Conclusions: this study further emphasizes the need for a greater number of interventions in terms of acquisition and implementation of skills for improving healthy food behaviors, as well as for reducing food waste in university students.