A qualitative study of food choice behaviors among college students with food allergies in the US

Purpose This study explored how food allergies have affected food-related behaviors and quality of life of college students with food allergies and identified factors influencing food choice decisions among this group of individuals. Design/methodology/approach One-on-one interviews were conducted with 26 college students with self-reported or clinically diagnosed food allergies, recruited from two universities located in the southern region of the United States. The participants were asked a series of questions based on a semi-structured discussion guide. Each interview lasted about 30 min; all interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcriptions were coded independently by three researchers, and themes were identified. Findings Food allergies affected the participants' food-related behaviors, including eating, food preparation and shopping, as well as some aspects of their quality of life. Individual factors, such as mood, other diseases, cultural background and sensory properties, also influenced food choices. Friends and families were the two most important social influencers of food choices. Regarding physical environmental factors, cost, convenience, value and variety were considered important in selecting food. However, the participants' food choices were less influenced by food advertisements and social media. Additionally, experiences and complex cuisines were also key factors in making food choices. Research limitations/implications Theoretically, this qualitative study applied a food choice decision framework in the context of college students with food allergies. Practical recommendations are provided, particularly to campus dining facilities, to fulfill the needs of college students with food allergies. Originality/value This study advanced the understanding of the complexity of food choice decision-making among college students with food allergies. A path diagram specific to food choice among college students with food allergies was developed based on the results of this study. This study also highlighted that food allergy management would involve various behavioral changes and revealed that the food choices are influenced by a wide range of factors.