Food for Thought

Food literacy plays a critical role in shaping dietary behaviors and health outcomes of young adults, particularly students navigating the transition to independent living. This cross-sectional study investigates food literacy among undergraduate students at a university in Germany. Students’ interest in future interventions, the relationship between food-related competencies, and the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF), as well as gender differences, are explored. The practical relevance lies in using the findings to promote students’ ability to plan, select, prepare, and eat healthy food, while the theoretical contribution includes refining the measurement of self-perceived food literacy (SPFL) and clarifying the role of its individual dimensions. Situated within the fields of public health, nutritional education, and behavioral science, this research contributes to a better understanding of health-related competencies. Using a quantitative approach, 905 self-reported responses from students were analyzed. Statistical methods included t-tests, chi-square tests, regression, and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Findings reveal that 54% of respondents demonstrate low food literacy, with the most critical deficits in comparing healthy alternatives, smart snacking, meal planning, and social and conscious eating. Higher food literacy is positively associated with healthier eating behaviors, such as avoiding UPF (e.g., ready-made meals). Results suggest that among other factors, SPFL might be related to students’ eating habits. However, while average levels do not deviate far from the general population in Germany, a key challenge for intervention programs lies in engaging students with the lowest food literacy—those who stand to benefit most but are least inclined to participate.