Comparison of dietary habits, perception and consumption frequency of fast foods between youths working part-time at fast food restaurants and other food-related services

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to compare dietary habits, perception, and consumption frequency of fast foods between part-time working youths at fast food restaurants and those at other food-related services. Methods: The study subjects were part-time working youths in 13 fast food restaurants (n = 118) and in 25 other places including bakeries, cafes, convenience stores, and other restaurants (n = 115) in Cheongju. Demographic characteristics, dietary habits, perception regarding fast foods, and consumption frequencies of food groups and fast foods were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: Female youths working at fast food restaurants had unhealthier dietary habits, such as meal skipping and night snacking compared to those working at other places. Consumption frequencies of fruits in males and beans/bean products in females working at fast food restaurants were significantly lower than those working at other places. Perception score on fast foods was significantly lower in males working at fast food restaurants than in males working at other places. However, the consumption frequencies of hamburgers, pizzas, and a total of six fast foods among both males and females working at fast food restaurants were significantly higher than those working at other places after adjusting for confounding variables including age, status, type of residence, allowance, alcohol, smoking, working hours, and hourly pay. Conclusion: Part-time working youths at fast food restaurants had worse dietary habits, such as meal skipping and night snacking, and consumed fast foods more frequently than those working at other places. Interventions for part-time working youths at fast food restaurants may be needed in order to reduce fast food consumption and increase the intake of fruits and vegetables.

Factors associated with frequent consumption of fast food among Australian secondary school students

“…For example, studies conducted in Australia (42) , New Zealand (43) and the United States (44) indicate schools in urban settings are in closer proximity to fast food outlets than schools in regional areas. In line with previous research, we also found that students with higher amounts of weekly spending money were more likely to be frequent fast food consumers (45) , as were those who worked part-time at a fast food outlet or take away food place (46) . A potential explanation for the latter finding is that employers may be incentivising regular fast food consumption through the offer of staff discounts.…”