University Meal Plan Subscription Is Not Associated with Higher Skin Carotenoid Levels

Abstract

Objective: To examine the relationship between meal plan subscription and fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake among first- and second-year college students.

Methods: A prospective cohort study (0-6 months) assessed F&V intake using a Veggie Meter and explored perceptions of F&V intake through focus group discussions (FGDs). Participants (n = 93, follow-up n = 58) were students at a public university. Paired Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for quantitative analysis and thematic analysis for FGD transcripts.

Results: Veggie Meter scores showed no significant changes within or between groups from baseline to 6 months. FGDs revealed similar influencing factors among students with and without meal plans, including sensory appeal, F&V knowledge, cost, and limited appealing F&V options.

Conclusions and implications: Meal plan subscription was not associated with higher Veggie Meter scores. Enhancing meal plan structures to improve the access, appeal, and affordability of F&V may support healthier dietary behaviors among college students.

Keywords: Veggie Meter; college students; dietary habits; fruit and vegetable intake; meal plans.