FACTORS INFLUENCING FOOD CHOICES AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL  STUDENTS IN THIKA SUB-COUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA

ODIPO, JANES

dc.contributor.author	ODIPO, JANES
dc.date.accessioned	2025-01-17T12:09:05Z
dc.date.available	2025-01-17T12:09:05Z
dc.date.issued	2024
dc.identifier.uri	https://ir.gretsauniversity.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/20.500.12736/4122
dc.description.abstract	This study aimed at investigating the factors that influenced food choices among secondary school students in Thika Sub-county, Kenya taking consideration on Cultural Factors, Health Considerations and School Policies. The specific objectives of the study were to ascertain the dietary preferences, identify factors that influence food choices, and to assess the influence of food choices on academic performance among secondary school student in Thika, sub county, Kenya. The Study employed a descriptive survey research design. The target population was Secondary schools students in the Thika sub-county, with an estimated student population of 447,664 students. A simple random sampling technique was used to sample 385 respondents from 14 secondary schools. The research instruments included structured questionnaires for quantitative data collection and semi-structured interviews for qualitative data. The study used questionnaires to collect primary data that was distributed to teachers and students in school. Data collected was analysed using descriptive .A majority (70.0%) of students did not follow specific cultural or religious food practices, though the preferences of the minority with such practices must be considered value were the most influential factors in food choices, with cost, peer influence, family influence, and cultural beliefs also playing significant roles. A notable finding was that 64.3% of students believed their food choices affected their academic performance, and many perceived improved concentration and increased energy levels as the primary benefits of good dietary programs. The study highlighted that taste and flavour, availability, and nutritional. The need for comprehensive strategies to improve students' nutrition, which can lead to enhanced academic outcomes. Implementing educational programs and community initiatives focused on healthy eating can empower students to make better food choices. Evaluating the specific nutritional interventions and expanding the research to different geographic regions could offer valuable insights into the diverse factors influencing food choices among students. Such research would provide a more comprehensive understanding of dietary habits and help develop more effective strategies for improving students' nutrition and academic outcomes.	en_US
dc.publisher	Gretsa university	en_US
dc.subject	Research project	en_US
dc.title	FACTORS INFLUENCING FOOD CHOICES AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THIKA SUB-COUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA	en_US