Understanding Healthy Eating Behaviors of Slovak Young Consumers: A Preliminary Study in Bratislava

Abstract

The European Union and United Nations have been working on promoting healthy eating behaviors and increasing physical activity for years. The aim of the study was to get insights about young consumers’ healthy eating behaviors and understand their perspectives regarding healthy eating for young people in Bratislava which is underrepresented in literature. Within this aim a preliminary study of a qualitative research was conducted with a convenient sample of 16 students and data were collected by written text. Data were analyzed by content analysis. These preliminary findings that are part of a broader research showed that participants’ macronutrient consumption is not sufficient for their ages. In terms of healthy eating they have several patterns which can be comparable among students. Promoting healthy eating behaviors should be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of young consumers. Targeted educational campaigns to promote healthy eating behaviors to make healthy food more affordable and accessible to young consumers and to create a supportive environment for healthy eating among young consumers should be implemented. © 2025 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.