Nutrition Knowledge Level of Teacher Candidates

This study, which investigates the nutrition knowledge levels of teacher candidates studying at Pamukkale University’s Faculty of Education, was carried out by collecting data from 52 voluntary teacher candidates during the fall semester of the 2022-2023 academic year using an easily accessible sampling method. The research follows a survey model and is a quantitative study. Data collection was performed by using a scale form and the data collected were analyzed using the SPSS statistical program. Frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation test results were used in the analysis. Regarding the status of following written and visual media sources for nutrition information, most of the teacher candidates responded that they were not following the written media sources but were following the visual media sources. It was determined that teacher candidates were generally consuming fast food once a week. The majority of candidates described their dietary habits as “everything”. Considering the factors influencing dietary choices, the most significant factor mentioned was “healthy and long life,” followed by taste preference and practicality. Regarding the nutrition knowledge levels of teacher candidates, almost all of them accurately answered the question about the best way to lose weight, whereas most of them provided incorrect answers to questions about foods with the highest vitamin A content and foods with the highest iron content. It was found that the nutrition knowledge levels of male teacher candidates were lower when compared to female teacher candidates and that the overall nutrition knowledge levels of teacher candidates were at a moderate level.