Digital Nutrition Education And Behavioral Change In Healthy Food Consumption Among Urban Youth

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the impact of digital-based nutrition education on changes in healthy food consumption behavior among urban adolescents. A qualitative method with a descriptive–exploratory design was employed to obtain an in-depth understanding of behavioral change processes, perceptions, and lived experiences of adolescents after participating in digital nutrition education. This approach was considered appropriate because changes in healthy eating behavior are highly contextual and influenced by social as well as psychological factors. The study was conducted in Bandung City, West Java Province, Indonesia, an urban area characterized by a high level of digital technology utilization among adolescents. A total of sixteen informants were involved, consisting of twelve adolescents aged 15–18 years as primary informants and four supporting informants, including two health educators and two parents. Informant selection was guided by the principle of data adequacy to ensure sufficient depth and richness of information. The findings indicate that digital-based nutrition education contributes to gradual improvements in adolescents’ nutritional awareness, positive attitudes, self-efficacy, and healthy eating practices. This study recommends the development of digital nutrition education programs that are integrated with behavioral theories and contextually designed to support sustainable changes in healthy food consumption behavior.