A Case Study on the Eating Habits among the Learners in a Chinese Private School in the Philippines

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to discover the eating habits of students in a Chinese private school in Cebu City. Method: This case study approach used face-to-face interviews with a total of eight (8) participants with an additional four (4) key participants for the focus group discussion that served as data triangulation to enhance the credibility of this study; and to give various interpretations and explanations in the data analysis. Findings: Based on the analysis of the transcripts, there were three major themes that were revealed: 1) the students’ food preferences &eating habits; 2) the iinfluences’ on students’ food choices and eating habits; and 3) the students’ nutritional awareness and its impact on their eating habits. Significance: This study seeks to provide insightful data for the researchers, nutritionists, students, canteen and entrepreneurs seeking to promote healthier eating habits. The results of this research can be used to help improve canteen food options, practices to tailor to the student’s eating habits and be used for entrepreneurs to formulate innovative ideas for sales opportunities. Conclusion: Schools have the responsibility for a comprehensive approach towards food education. Its nutritional awareness of food choices and intake among the stakeholders is important that will have its lasting effects on students’ overall health. School canteens should offer healthy and well-balanced foods even when students are in their cravings or moods to foster healthy eating habits. In this way, it will reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related health issues in the future.