Preference and Consumption of Processed Food Products among Adolescents in 15 Provinces of Indonesia: An Explorative Study

Abstract

Abstract Food consumption behaviour among adolescents had a significant impact on stunting as a second window of opportunity. This study aimed to investigate the preference and consumption habit of processed food products among 4500 adolescents in 15 provinces of Indonesia, which involved rural and urban areas. A cross-sectional design was used and food consumption was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, while food preference was measured using Likert scale. A t-test was used to compare preference and consumption in Java-Bali (JB) and Non Java-Bali (NJB) due to differences in technological and economic development in both regions. Adolescents in JB showed more preference for dairy, meat-based, and bakery products, whilst those in NJB preferred dairy and bakery products as well as ready-to-eat snacks more. In terms of consumption of processed foods, there was a significant difference between JB and NJB (p<0.05). Adolescents in JB and NJB were found to consume a higher quantity of ready-to-eat snacks, non-dairy drinks, and dairy products. Logistic regression showed that adolescents who reside in JB and urban areas with higher education level, employed parents, higher economic status, and smaller family size tend to consume processed foods more often.