Junk Food Consumption among the Youth: A Cross-Sectional Study on University Students of Dhaka City

The consumption pattern of food has a direct impact on the health status of the people. As the youth population is inclined towards unhealthy junk food over healthy dietary pattern, potential risk associated with public health is increasing. This study attempts to explore the junk food consumption pattern of the university students in Dhaka city. 406 university students from different universities of Dhaka city were respondents in this cross-sectional study. The sources of junk food were classified in three categories, and it was found that consumption of street food, cafeteria food and restaurant food vary by gender. 70% female and 54% male students responded that their consumption is influenced by social media while half of the male students and around 70% female believed online food delivery services have increased their consumption of fast food. Irrespective of gender, almost 60% of students feel that they are already facing health issues because of these unhealthy foods. More than 50% of students are ready to shift to healthier alternatives, even if they are costlier.