Korean Journal of Community Nutrition

Research Articles

[Korean]
Evaluation of the nutrition quality of meals served in small-scale public foodservice for the elderly in Korea by foodservice operation type–focused on proportion over chronic disease risk reduction intake and nutrient adequacy ratio: a cross-sectional study: Inhee Kang, Hyeongmo An, Gyoungok Gang, Hyeja Chang; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(4):348-359. Published online August 31, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00290

Abstract PDF: Objectives
Although delivery-based contract-managed operations have recently increased in small-scale foodservice facilities serving older adults, studies investigating the nutrient adequacy of meals and chronic disease risk reduction intake remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate nutrient intake levels, nutrient intake adequacy, and their chronic disease risk, and to compare differences between self-operation and contract-managed foodservice.
Methods
Nutrient intakes of 777 participants were assessed for lunch and snack in 18 small-scale foodservice settings serving older adults in Korea. Data collection included 12 visits to six self-operated foodservice settings (November 2024–June 2025) and 24 visits to 12 contract-managed foodservice settings (December 2025–March 2026). Using the individual leftover measurement method, consumption adjustment factors were calculated. By applying it to standardized recipes from lunch and afternoon snacks, nutrient intake was analyzed using CAN-Pro 6.0 (Professional Edition; The Korean Nutrition Society). Based on the 2025 Korean Dietary Reference Intakes, nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR), the proportion of participants with intakes below nutrient reference values, and the proportion over chronic disease risk reduction intake (CDRR) were calculated.
Results
Except for significantly higher soup consumption in self-operated foodservice, no significant differences in consumption and consumption adjustment factors were observed among food types between the two foodservice operation types. NARs were low for vitamin B6 (0.29), vitamin D (0.37), vitamin A (0.52), vitamin C (0.55), and calcium (0.61), indicating inadequate micronutrient intake. The highest proportions were for vitamin B6 (94.9%), followed by vitamin A and folate (76.4%), vitamin C (70.4%), and calcium (69.0%). The proportion over CDRR of the participants was highest for sodium (91.2%), followed by saturated fatty acids (46.6%) and total sugars (3.7%), showing significant differences between the two foodservice operation types.
Conclusion
Nutrition management in small-scale public foodservice facilities for older people should reflect actual consumption and operation type-specific nutrient deficiencies or excesses.

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[Korean]
Analysis of evaluation indicators and development of a logic model-based performance evaluation framework for early childhood programs in the Center for Children’s and Social Welfare Foodservice Management in South Korea: a mixed-methods study: Sohyun Park, Jieun Oh, Hyun Joo Ryou, Ji-Yun Hwang, Kirang Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(4):360-373. Published online August 31, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00122

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study analyzed the current evaluation indicators used for early childhood programs by the Center for Children’s and Social Welfare Foodservice Management (CCFSM) in South Korea and developed a logic model-based performance evaluation framework to improve the system through outcome-oriented assessment.
Methods
The study comprised four stages. First, existing on-site evaluation indicators were mapped onto a logic model framework to assess their suitability for evaluating program effectiveness. Second, focus group interviews were conducted with stakeholders and experts to examine their understanding of, and perceived limitations in, the current evaluation system. Third, new outcome indicators were developed using checklist items for hygiene, safety, and nutrition management implemented across centers, and program effectiveness was evaluated using these indicators. Fourth, additional indicators were developed to assess the effectiveness of child-targeted nutrition and dietary education programs, and their practical applicability was examined.
Results
The current evaluation indicators focused primarily on structural (input) and process measures, with limited emphasis on outcomes reflecting the ultimate program goals. Few indicators directly assessed improvements in children’s health and dietary behaviors, and existing outcome measures relied largely on subjective satisfaction surveys completed by facility directors and parents. Based on the logic model, the proposed outcome indicators included, in the mid-term, improvements in hygiene, safety, and healthy eating practices scores, and, in the long-term, reductions in foodborne illness and food allergy incidents, increased fruit and vegetable intake, and decreased sodium and sugar intake.
Conclusion
The findings highlight the need to transition the CCFSM evaluation system toward a performance-oriented framework. A logic model-based evaluation system would improve accountability and better align evaluation practices with policy objectives, whereas phased implementation would help minimize operational burden on practitioners.

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[English]
Consumer responses to upcycled foods in sustainable diets in Korea: a protection motivation theory-based cross-sectional study: Jellna Chung, Yeong Gug Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(4):328-338. Published online August 31, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00052

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study aims to examine how perceived risks associated with upcycled foods shape consumer decision-making through the lens of Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). Although upcycled foods have gained increasing attention as a promising approach to reducing food waste and supporting sustainable diets, consumer acceptance remains uncertain due to concerns about safety, quality, unfamiliarity, and perceived contamination. Specifically, this study investigates the cognitive mechanisms by which threat and coping appraisals influence protection motivation and purchase intention.
Methods
Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 211 consumers in South Korea through an online questionnaire. The survey measured perceived risk, perceived severity, perceived vulnerability, response efficacy, self-efficacy, protection motivation, and purchase intention toward upcycled foods. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were employed to assess the validity and reliability of the measurement model and to test the proposed PMT-based framework and hypothesized relationships among perceived risk, cognitive appraisals, motivation, and intention.
Results
Perceived risks significantly increase perceived severity and vulnerability while reducing response efficacy. These findings indicate that consumers who perceive greater risks associated with upcycled foods are more likely to recognize potential negative consequences and their personal susceptibility, and to question whether purchasing such products can effectively address sustainability-related concerns. Both threat appraisal and coping appraisal significantly affect protection motivation, which in turn positively influences purchase intention. The relationship between perceived risk and self-efficacy was not supported, suggesting that risk perception alone may not directly undermine consumers’ confidence in their ability to choose or consume upcycled foods.
Conclusion
The findings demonstrate that perceived risks do not uniformly inhibit consumption of upcycled food but operate through nuanced cognitive pathways. By highlighting the central role of coping appraisal, this study suggests that strengthening consumers’ efficacy beliefs is critical to promoting informed, sustainable adoption of upcycled foods. The results have practical implications for marketers, policymakers, and food industry stakeholders by emphasizing the need for transparent information, credible communication, and consumer education to reduce uncertainty and reinforce the perceived effectiveness and accessibility of upcycled food choices.

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Research Note

[Korean]
Sugar intake from processed foods among Koreans and levy on excessive sugar use: a cross-sectional study: Sung Ok Kwon, Cho-il Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(3):287-296. Published online June 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00199

Abstract PDF

Objectives
Although reduced mean sugar intakes have been reported recently, proportion changes in the Korean population with a sugar intake higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) sugar intake recommendation (WSIR) remain unknown. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed the sugar intake of Koreans to identify trends and prioritize target groups for relevant policy interventions.
Methods
We used dietary intake data from the 8th and 9th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (KNHANES VIII and IX) to derive sugar intake from processed foods (SIPF) in the Korean population. We classified, aggregated and calculated sugar intake from individual foods at the tertiary-level food codes, and assessed SIPF adequacy based on whether it met the WSIR of less than 10% of the total energy intake.
Results
The proportion of the Korean population with an SIPF exceeding the WSIR was 22.7% and 22.4% in KNHANES VIII and IX, respectively. Nevertheless, more than one-third of children, adolescents, and young adults (34.6%–39.1%) showed SIPF higher than the WSIR with the highest proportion of 41.4% registered among school-age girls in KNHANES IX.
Conclusion
While the mean sugar intake of Koreans has decreased slightly since 2019, the proportion of people with SIPF exceeding WSIR is on the rise in school-age children, adolescents, and young adults, implying the necessity of proactive policy responses. As the Korean government discusses fiscal policy design and implementation to moderate the sugar intake of the population in order to promote public health and prevent chronic diseases, it should bear in mind the point emphasized in the WHO guideline as follows: “Changes in health-related outcomes as a result of a fiscal policy are likely to occur in the long term and should therefore be evaluated over a longer term than outcomes such as purchasing and consumption of foods and beverages.”

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Estimating added sugars intake among South Koreans: results from the 2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Youngmin Nam, Linxi Huang, Cho-il Kim, Jihyun Yoon
Clinical Nutrition Research.2026; 15(3): 139. CrossRef

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Research Articles

[English]
Current status of sodium provision and reduction management in South Korean school meals: a descriptive study: Sooyoun Kwon, Youngmi Lee, Meeyoung Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(3):229-243. Published online June 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00101

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study investigated the current status of sodium provision and reduction management in South Korean school meals.
Methods
Using a proportional stratified random sampling by school level (kindergarten and elementary, middle, and high school), location (urban, rural, and island/remote area), and region (17 metropolitan and provincial Offices of Education), 1,068 schools (about 10% of all schools) were selected from 430 kindergartens and 5,883 elementary, 2,501 middle, and 2,268 high schools using the school meal system of the National Education Information System. An online survey was conducted with nutrition teachers and dietitians at the selected schools from September to November 2021 (n = 608; response rate: 57%).
Results
About 26.6% of schools had not established sodium provision standards. More than half of the respondents (59.9%) had never used low-sodium products; this percentage increased with school level. The reasons given included “insufficient information” (46.7%) and “high prices” (41.5%). The level of consideration for sodium management was highest at the cooking stage (3.89/5.00 points) and lowest at purchasing stage (3.20 points). Cooking-related consideration was significantly higher in kindergartens and elementary schools than in middle and high schools, while purchasing-related consideration was significantly higher in elementary than in middle schools. To reduce sodium, the most commonly reported requirement was “reduction of the excessive foodservice workload” (4.48/5.00 points), followed by “support for educational materials” (4.31 points).
Conclusion
Reducing sodium intake in school meals may require establishing clear sodium standards, increasing the availability of low-sodium products, easing the excessive workload, and enhancing educational support. To support these efforts, more comprehensive and consistently implemented policy approaches may be needed to reduce sodium in schools.

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[Korean]
Foodservice management and nutrition education status and needs for individuals with developmental disabilities in welfare facilities in Seoul and Gyeonggi, Korea: a cross-sectional study: Mi-ra Lee, Youngmi Lee, Yun Hee Chang, Yujin Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(2):192-204. Published online April 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00087

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study aimed to examine the current status of foodservice management and nutrition education practices, and the needs for individuals with developmental disabilities in welfare centers in Seoul and Gyeonggi, South Korea, and to compare the differences according to dietitians’ level of understanding of developmental disabilities.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among dietitians working at 65 welfare centers, and data from 45 centers were analyzed. The questionnaire assessed general characteristics, foodservice operations, nutrition education practices, perceived needs, and the understanding of developmental disabilities. Participants were classified into high- (n = 17) and low-understanding (n = 28) groups based on their self-rated understanding of developmental disabilities. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 29.0 (IBM Corp.).
Results
All centers provided one daily meal (lunch), with one cook serving an average of 116 individuals. Only 11.1% of centers implemented nutrition education, primarily limited due to insufficient time and low expectations regarding the effectiveness of nutrition education. Overall, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in most aspects of foodservice management and nutrition education practices, although some specific items showed significant differences. The high-understanding group reported a significantly greater perceived need for nutrition education and placed higher importance on rapport-building and situational response skills. These findings suggest that structural constraints, including staffing, budget, and limited resources, may play a greater role than individual- level understanding in shaping foodservice and nutrition education practices.
Conclusion
Welfare centers showed limited capacity to provide tailored foodservice and systematic nutrition education for adults with developmental disabilities. Strengthening staffing standards, improving foodservice environments, and developing standardized educational materials that consider communication levels are necessary. Moreover, expanding professional training opportunities for dietitians and establishing institutional support systems are essential to enhance sustainable nutrition education practices.

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[English]
Development of a simplified NOVA-based scoring tool for assessing ultra-processed food consumption among Korean young adults: a cross-sectional study: Jinhyun Kim, Eunjin Jang, Sarang Jeong, Sukyoung Jung, Jee Young Kim, Jung Eun Lee, Dahye Han, Eunseo Lee, Junhyeok Jang, Sohyun Park; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(2):140-152. Published online April 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00059

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Objectives
This study aimed to develop a NOVA-based scoring approach for evaluating ultra- processed food (UPF) intake among Korean adults and to examine its performance. Previous studies have reported that young adults have the highest levels of UPF consumption. Accordingly, this study focused on adults aged 19–40 years and developed scoring components reflecting dietary patterns specific to Korean eating habits.
Methods
Using 24-hour dietary recall data from adults aged 19–40 years in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2021–2023), foods were classified according to the Korean-adapted NOVA system. The top 10 food groups accounting for ≥ 80% of cumulative UPF-derived energy were selected to construct the scoring components. The tool was operationalized using food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) data from the Gangwon cohort study (2022–2024). Intake frequencies were converted into scores ranging from 0 (“rarely or never”) to 5 (“≥ 1 time/day”), and summed to generate the NOVA–UPF score (range: 0–50).
Results
Among 237 young adults (aged 20–49 years), the mean NOVA–UPF score was 22.9 ± 8.3. A positive association was observed between the NOVA–UPF score and FFQbased UPF energy intake (Spearman’s ρ = 0.629, P < 0.001). Cross-classification showed that 51.9% were classified into the same tertile and 94.9% into the same or adjacent tertiles, with a weighted kappa coefficient of 0.279.
Conclusion
This NOVA-based scoring approach may serve as a preliminary tool for assessing UPF intake in Korean young adults. Further refinement and rigorous validation using quantitative dietary assessment methods and more diverse populations are required before broader application.

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[Korean]
Differences in lunch nutrient intake and nutritional adequacy among Korean older adults by meal site: a cross-sectional analysis of the 2018–2021 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data: Daeun Choi, Sunhee Seo; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(2):205-213. Published online April 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2026.00045

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study aimed to examine whether the dietary quality of congregate lunches differs according to meal location among older adults and to identify meal settings that may represent gaps in nutritional oversight. Specifically, this study compared lunchtime nutrient intake and adequacy among older adults eating at workplaces, welfare centers, and religious institutions.
Methods
Data were obtained from the 2018–2021 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The participants included 487 adults aged ≥ 65 years who reported consuming lunch at institutional meal sites, including workplaces (n = 187), welfare centers (n = 145), and religious institutions (n = 155). Nutrient intakes, nutrient adequacy ratio (NARs), and the mean adequacy ratio were compared using complex-sample general linear models with Bonferroni post-hoc tests, adjusting for sex, age, and total energy intake.
Results
Socioeconomic characteristics were broadly comparable across groups, but nutrient intake and dietary quality differed according to meal location. In food-group analyses, meat intake was lowest among participants eating at religious institutions, and dairy intake also differed significantly across settings. In nutrient adequacy analyses, NAR for carbohydrate, thiamin, and niacin differed significantly by meal location. However, except for carbohydrate, most nutrient-specific NAR remained below 1.0 across all groups, indicating insufficient adequacy relative to one-third of the recommended intake from lunch alone.
Conclusion
The dietary quality of congregate lunches among older adults differed according to meal location. Although nutrient inadequacy was common across settings, older adults eating at religious institutions showed relatively lower adequacy for some nutrients, particularly thiamin and niacin. These findings suggest that nutritional support should be strengthened across congregate meal services, with particular attention to less structured community-based settings such as religious institutions.

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[Korean]
A comparative study on nutritional status and diet-related subjective perceptions according to free meal service utilization among older adults living alone in Korea: a cross-sectional study: Minju Jeong, Dayeon Shin; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(2):165-177. Published online April 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00339

Abstract PDF: Objectives
To assess whether the use of free meal services is associated with diet quality among older adults living alone in Incheon, Korea, by comparing the Nutrition Quotient for the Elderly (NQ-E), index of nutritional quality (INQ), and mean adequacy ratio (MAR).
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March 5 to April 24, 2025 using one-to-one interviews and partially self-administered questionnaires. After excluding cases with missing responses or energy intake of < 500 kcal/day, 119 participants were analyzed (56 men and 63 women). A single 24-hour recall was used to calculate INQ and MAR. NQ-E was evaluated using total and subdomain scores. Group comparisons and sex-stratified multiple linear regression analyses were performed.
Results
Diet-quality indicators were higher among service users than among non-users. INQ for thiamin and riboflavin was significantly higher in men than in women. Meanwhile, INQ for zinc, vitamin A, riboflavin, and folate was higher in women than in men. In both sexes, MAR was higher among users than among non-users (men: 0.8 ± 0.2 vs. 0.6 ± 0.2; women: 0.7 ± 0.2 vs. 0.5 ± 0.2; P < 0.001 for all). Differences in NQ-E total scores were small. Among women, the practice subdomain score was higher in users than in non-users (66.0 ± 16.4 vs. 55.2 ± 15.5; P = 0.016), and the proportion in upper grades was greater (P = 0.030). Regression analysis showed that service use was negatively associated with NQ-E in men (P = 0.007) and positively associated with MAR in women (P = 0.010).
Conclusion
Use of free meal services was associated with improved diet quality, as reflected by MAR and INQ for specific nutrients, and with higher NQ-E practice scores observed in women than in men. Policies should prioritize food-insecure groups and support sustained participation.

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[Korean]
Effects of senior-friendly foods on health, nutritional status, and dietary intake among rural elderly women in Korea: a quasi-experimental study: Sang-ju Lee, Ji-hyeon Kim, Jin-suk Han; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(1):101-113. Published online February 28, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00353

Abstract PDF: Objectives
We evaluated the impacts on health, nutritional status, and dietary intake of providing senior-friendly foods to community-dwelling elderly women in a rural area in Korea.
Methods
A pretest–posttest nonequivalent control group design with repeated measures was conducted among 71 rural-dwelling elderly women. Changes in health indicators, nutritional status, and dietary intake were assessed at three time points: baseline, post-intervention, and two months after intervention.
Results
Immediately after a three month intervention, significant differences were observed between the intervention and control groups in frailty score, Dysphagia Handicap Index, Mini Nutritional Assessment, social isolation, resilience, quality of life, and depression (P < 0.05). Significant group-by-time interaction effects were found for muscle mass, hemoglobin A1c, and energy, protein, and micronutrient intake, all of which showed significant improvements in the intervention group (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Providing senior-friendly foods effectively improved physical and physiological health and emotional well-being among rural older adults. This intervention also contributed broadly to improved dietary intake. These findings provide empirical evidence to support the development of community-based integrated care models and tailored nutrition intervention programs for rural elderly populations in Korea. Trial Registration: Clinical Research Information Service Identifier: KCT0011666.

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[English]
Impact of a foodservice establishment manager’s willingness to perform duties on hygiene management levels and the mediating effects of extrinsic motivations: a cross-sectional study: Tae Yang Kim, Mi Young Lee, Young Eun Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2026;31(1):36-49. Published online February 28, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00332

Abstract PDF: Objectives
Consumer demand is growing for more rigorous hygiene management within foodservice establishments. The aim of this study was to provide customized data specific to each foodservice establishment, thereby informing policy formulation to improve hygiene management levels.
Methods
We surveyed 310 managers of directly managed foodservice establishments (excluding franchises) that were subject to hygiene inspections by the Chungbuk Provincial Office in Korea between September 1 and 27, 2023. Additionally, 30 investigators trained in methods for evaluating the hygiene management levels of foodservice establishments objectively assessed 310 establishments using evaluation sheets. All 310 managers provided consent and personally completed the questionnaires. Data from 277 managers were included in the analysis. General characteristics were analyzed with descriptive statistics in IBM SPSS Statistics 28 (IBM Corp.). Univariate normality verification, measurement model verification, structural model verification, and mediation effect significance analysis were conducted using R’s lavaan package (version 4.3.2.).
Results
Managers’ willingness to perform duties had a positive influence on hygiene management level (0.224), enthusiasm for hygiene (0.661), awareness of hygiene compliance (0.616), mandatory perception of the system (0.568), trust in local governments (0.406), and attention to consumers (0.558). In the relationship between managers’ willingness to perform duties and hygiene management level, mandatory perception of the system had a negative mediating effect (–0.223), while trust in local governments had a positive mediating effect (0.264).
Conclusion
Structural equation modeling was used to identify the complex pathways by which foodservice establishment managers’ willingness to perform duties, mediated by their human factors, influences their hygiene management level. Accordingly, policy implications were presented, suggesting that the hygiene management level of foodservice establishments could be enhanced by increasing managers’ willingness to perform their duties, and that a shift from mandatory regulations by local governments to support-oriented systems that foster trust in local governments is necessary.

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[English]
Ultra-processed food intake and dietary behaviors in Korean adolescents: a cross-sectional study based on the 2019–2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Jin-A Kim, Sim-Yeol Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(6):410-418. Published online December 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00297

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study aimed to investigate the intake of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and dietary behaviors in Korean adolescents.
Methods
This study used 24-hour dietary recall data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2019–2023). In total, 1,720 adolescents aged 12–18 years were included in this study and categorized into quartiles based on the percentage of energy intake from the UPF. Nutritional status, contributing subgroups of UPF intake, and healthy dietary practices were examined using Health Plan 2030 indicators across quartiles of UPF intake.
Results
The nutrient intake of protein, vitamins (A, B1, B2, niacin), and minerals (iron, potassium) was the lowest in the fourth quartile of UPF intake compared with the first quartile (P for trend < 0.001), whereas calcium intake increased across quartiles, from 47.68% in the first quartile to 58.51% in the fourth quartile (P for trend < 0.001). The main contributing subgroups to UPF intake differed across quartiles of UPF intake, and the highest contributing subgroups were ‘instant noodles and dumplings,’ ‘desserts, cakes, and ice cream,’ and ‘sauces and seasonings.’ Healthy dietary practices were the lowest in the fourth quartile (22.18%, P < 0.001), and the proportions of appropriate fat and fruit/vegetable intake were significantly lower in the higher quartiles of UPF intake (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
This study suggests that a lower UPF intake was associated with better nutritional status and healthy dietary practices in Korean adolescents. These findings provide fundamental evidence for promoting healthier food choices and balanced dietary practices.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

An Exploratory Indirect Association Analysis of Dietary Supplement Use and Metabolic Risk in Korean Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study
Jeoungmi Kim, Vasuki Rajaguru
Foods.2026; 15(14): 2554. CrossRef

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[Korean]
Effects of primary caregivers’ food literacy, social support, food environment, and household income on the nutritional status of school-aged children: a cross-sectional study: Seyeon Park, Ji-Yun Hwang, Sohyun Park, Hyun Joo Ryou, Jieun Oh; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(5):352-363. Published online October 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00248

Abstract PDF

Objectives
The dietary habits of school-aged children play a critical role in their growth and development, and are strongly influenced by the home environment. Household income is closely associated with caregivers’ food literacy, social support, and food environment. This directly affects the nutritional status of children. This study aimed to provide evidence to inform policies and educational programs for improving dietary habits in children, and to establish a foundation for tailored support strategies for low-income families.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included 846 primary caregivers of school-aged children from 17 regions across Korea, recruited through an online survey. Household income, caregivers’ food literacy, social support, and food environment were assessed. Nutritional status in children was measured using the Nutrition Quotient for Children (NQ-C). Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), correlation analyses, and multiple linear regression.
Results
Caregivers from higher income households demonstrated significantly greater food literacy and social support (P < 0.001). Children from these households showed high balance scores and a large proportion of these children were in the “high” NQ-C grade. The NQ-C score in children was positively correlated with food literacy (r = 0.425), social support (r = 0.471), and the food environment (r = 0.235) (P < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis showed that food literacy (β = 0.256) and social support (β = 0.348) were significant predictors of nutritional status in children.
Conclusion
This study confirmed that the nutritional status in children is not only determined solely by household income but is also mediated by caregivers’ food literacy, social support, and food environment. These findings highlighted the limitations of providing only economic support. The findings underscore the need for multifaceted interventions such as strengthening parental nutrition education, expanding social support networks, and improving access to healthy foods.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Inequities in Children’s Food Environment: A Comparison between Slum and Non-slum Settings in Urban Bangladesh
Tania Ahmed Chowdhury, Nasrin Akhter, Kaniz Fatima Emy, Akhi Akter, Ishrat Hossain, Rezwana Jahan, Mohammad Jahangir Alam, Pepijn Schreinemachers, Ee Von Goh
Journal of Urban Health.2026;[Epub] CrossRef

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[Korean]
Survey on consumer perceptions, health benefits and preferences of kindergarten and school foodservices in Korea, including related keywords reported in newspaper: a mixed-methods study: Gyoungok Gang, Chaewon Park, Hyeja Chang; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(4):309-320. Published online August 29, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00199

Abstract PDF: Objectives
With the rapid development of social culture, the perception of kindergarten and school foodservice, as well as opinions on its health benefits, has changed significantly. However, research on this topic remains scarce. We conducted a survey in South Korea on consumers’ perceptions, healthiness, and preferences regarding kindergarten and school foodservice.
Methods
With the nationwide cooperation of 17 city and provincial education offices, online and offline surveys were conducted targeting the parents of kindergarten and lower-grade elementary school children, as well as upper-grade elementary, middle, and high school students. In addition, keywords in newspaper reports were analyzed using the Big Kinds platform. A total of 532 valid questionnaires were collected, and statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27.0 (IBM Co.).
Results
The average age of the parents and students was 40 and 12.5 years, respectively, with 36.4% of the students attending schools in the Seoul and Gyeonggi areas. The main keywords reported in newspaper articles, as analyzed using the Big Kinds platform, were “eco-friendly agricultural products,” “food ingredients,” “safety,” and “marine products.” The perception of kindergarten and school foodservice was very positive, especially regarding the attributes of safe ingredient use (4.44), menu variety (4.29), cafeteria cleanliness (4.31), cleanliness of plates, spoons, and utensils (4.24), thorough hygiene management (4.2), nutritional excellence (4.24), and support for proper eating habits (4.18). The healthiness of school foodservice was highly rated, although there is still room for improvement in terms of “not serving fried foods more than twice a week”. In terms of preference for school meals, the most preferred items were meat side dishes, followed by chicken, noodles, fried food, beverages, and bread. In contrast, soybean paste soup, vegetables, and mixed-grain rice received relatively low preference.
Conclusion
The results described above may be used to develop educational programs or policies that inform students and parents about the goals of school foodservice and help address common misunderstandings.

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[English]
Safety education status and needs priorities of Korean military food service personnel using the Borich Needs Assessment and the Locus for Focus model: a cross-sectional study: Jeongeun Park, Eunsil Her; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(4):261-273. Published online August 29, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00185

Abstract PDF: Objectives
Since the enactment of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act in Korea in 2021, the importance of safety management in food service facilities has increased. This study was conducted to examine the status of safety education and to identify educational needs for safety accident prevention among army food service personnel.
Methods
This study included 157 food service personnel from Army units located in Gyeongsangnam-do. Participants were divided into two groups based on the daily number of meals served. Demographic characteristics, the status of safety education, and priority for safety accident prevention education were evaluated.
Results
A total of 97.5% of participants received safety education, with 60.8% attending at least monthly. “Lecture” (63.4%) was the most commonly used educational method. The preferred educational methods were “Lecture” (23.5%) and “Counselling” (23.5%), showing significant group differences (P < 0.001). A total of 79.6% of participants reported applying the educational content in their performance. The mean importance score for safety accident prevention (4.78) was higher than the performance score (4.44), with significant differences between the two groups observed in the importance scores (P < 0.05). “Slip & burn” had the highest importance score, while “Electric shock and fire” had the highest performance score. The educational needs analysis revealed that the highest priority item for the < 100 meals group was “When moving heavy items, an assistive device or assistance from colleagues should be utilized”, while for the ≥ 100 meals group, it was “When using a vegetable cutter or grinder, use an exclusive stick.”
Conclusion
This study can serve as a foundational database for developing customized safety education programs tailored to Korean army food service personnel.

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[Korean]
Analysis of the relationship between foodservice staffing and foodservice quality in elderly care facilities in Korea: a cross-sectional study: Hyeonjeong Kim, Jinhee Kwon, Jungsuk Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(4):296-308. Published online August 29, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00122

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study was performed to investigate the relationship between foodservice staffing and foodservice quality in elderly care facilities.
Methods
Data was obtained from the Korean Long-term Care Institute Database and used to analyze 2,084 elderly care facilities operating on-site foodservice. The presence of dietitians and staffing levels for cooking personnel were analyzed by categorizing size according to staffing criteria. Foodservice quality was assessed using food sanitation management and meal service provision as indicators. Descriptive statistical analysis, chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test were conducted to analyze relationships between staffing level and foodservice quality.
Results
Presence of a dietitian correlated with food sanitation management and meal service provision in groups with 30 or more recipients (P = 0.027, P = 0.049). Elderly care facilities with dietitians had better foodservice quality. After adjusting for size, the presence of dietitians was also found to correlate with food sanitation management (P = 0.024). Staffing levels for cooking personnel were found to correlate with meal service provision only in groups with 38 to 62 recipients. Institutions with larger staffs provided better meal service quality compared to those with basic staffing.
Conclusion
Inclusion of a dietitian and cooking staff size each contribute to enhanced foodservice quality in elderly care facilities, with dietitian inclusion showing a particularly significant association with food sanitation management. These findings suggest the need to revise current staffing and related regulatory standards to optimize deployment of foodservice personnel in elderly care settings. Future studies should focus on developing effective policies for securing qualified foodservice staff and establishing robust quality management systems to enhance overall foodservice quality in long-term care facilities.

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Review

[Korean]
Current status of nutrition education media and its utilization in providing customized nutrition information for older adults in Korea: a scoping review based on the transtheoretical model and food literacy: Seojin Yun, Jiwon An, Kirang Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(3):175-182. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00094

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Objectives
This study analyzes the status of nutrition education media among Korean older adults based on the transtheoretical model (TTM) and their food literacy to propose effective strategies for the development and utilization of educational media.
Methods
A literature review was conducted using The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) protocol. The literature search was performed using government and local government agency websites, as well as those of affiliated institutions, health and nutrition-related academic societies, and academic search engines. A total of 144 studies were identified, and after a cross-evaluation by two reviewers based on the literature selection criteria, 73 studies were included in the final analysis.
Results
Among the types of nutrition education media, card news had the highest proportion, followed by video media. The development and distribution of nutrition education media for older adults were primarily carried out by government and local government agencies, as well as related affiliated institutions, accounting for 80.8% (n = 59) of the total. When nutrition education topics in the media were categorized according to the stages of behavior change in the TTM, the largest proportion, 64.6% (n = 61), was applicable to the precontemplation and contemplation stages. When categorized by food literacy domains, all topics fell under the categories of nutrition and safety.
Conclusion
Nutrition education media for older adults were found to be primarily focused on knowledge acquisition and information delivery, making them mostly applicable to the precontemplation and contemplation stages of behavior change. The concept of food literacy addressed in the different types of media was limited to the domains of nutrition and safety, with no content covering the cultural and relational domains or the social and ecological domains. For tailored nutrition education, it is necessary to develop diverse educational materials that comprehensively reflect each stage of the TTM and all aspects of food literacy.

Citations

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A needs assessment for the development of a digital-based self-nutrition management education program for older adults in Korea: a cross-sectional study
Hae-Song Yoo, Jin-Myung Lee, Min-Sun Jeon
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2026; 31(2): 178. CrossRef
Effect of a community-based nutrition intervention incorporating social cognitive theory constructs and transtheoretical model-based counseling among communitydwelling elderly in Korea: a quasi-experimental study
Hyewon Shin, Seungmin Lee
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2026; 31(3): 264. CrossRef
Toward the development of a digital self-nutrition management education program for elderly: findings from focus groups study
Hae-song Yoo, Jin-myong Lee, Min-sun Jeon
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2025; 30(6): 431. CrossRef

2,778 View
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Research Articles

[English]
Understanding the charactersitics and types of single-person households based on food purchase frequencies in Korea: a cross-sectional study using the 2023 Consumer Behavior Survey for Foods: So-Yun Kim, Youngmin Nam, Jong-Youn Rha, Haerang Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):27-39. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00031

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study investigated the differences in food purchase frequency among single-person households by gender and age group and explored the characteristics of single-person household groups according to their food purchase patterns.
Methods
Utilizing data from the 2023 Consumer Behavior Survey for Foods conducted by the Korea Rural Economic Institute, this study examined food purchase frequencies among 966 single-person households. Data were analyzed using Rao-Scott chi-square tests, ANCOVA, ANOVA, and K-modes hierarchical cluster analysis.
Results
Significant differences were observed in the food purchase frequencies of single-person households for fresh and convenient food. Women displayed higher purchase frequencies for fish, vegetables, and fruits, whereas men showed higher purchase frequencies for convenient foods (P < 0.005). Single-person households aged 39 years and younger exhibited lower purchase frequencies for vegetables (P < 0.005) and fish (P < 0.001) and substantially higher frequencies of convenient food purchases (P < 0.001). Additionally, this study identified three distinct single-person household groups based on food purchase pattern: the “nutrition-conscious” group, which exhibited high purchase frequency for fresh foods; the “convenience-seeking” group, which showed high purchase frequency for all types of convenient foods; and the “passive food consumer” group, which displayed relatively low purchase frequency for both fresh foods and convenient foods. The socio-demographic characteristics of single-person households differed significantly across these three groups, with the “passive food consumer” group and “convenience-seeking” group exhibiting lower healthy eating competency (MN(nutrition-conscious group) = 3.68, MP(passive-food-consumer group) = 3.40, MC(convenience-seeking group) = 3.52, P < 0.001), safe eating competency (MN = 3.87, MP = 3.57, MC = 3.77, P < 0.001), and satisfaction (MN = 3.36, MP = 3.23, MC = 3.25, P = 0.04) than the “nutrition-conscious” group.
Conclusion
This study underscores the need for targeted nutrition programs to address the unique needs of single-person households depending on their characteristics. Specifically, this study highlights the importance of targeted interventions for “convenience-seeking” and “passive food consumer” to promote dietary competency and encourage healthy dietary behavior.

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Dietary behaviors and food waste typologies in single-person households using nationally representative data in South Korea
Wonwi Moon, Sunny Ham, Yonghee Suk
Waste Management.2026; 216: 115446. CrossRef
Cut-Specific Phospholipid Content and Distribution in Commonly Consumed Beef and Pork in Korea
Sunyoung Lim, Heon-Woong Kim, Jung-Ah Shin
Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition.2026; 55(4): 360. CrossRef
Secular trends in dietary patterns among Korean adults: using data from the 2007–2022 Korea National health and nutrition examination survey
Eunyoung Tak, Juhae Kim, Heejin Lee, Minji Kang
Nutrition Journal.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
남성의 조리문해력이 식생활만족도에 미치는 영향: 조리관심도의 매개효과를 중심으로
진영 장, 지영 윤
Korean Journal of Food and Cookery Science.2025; 41(6): 430. CrossRef

13,857 View
138 Download
4 Crossref

[Korean]
Analysis of pork consumption attribute factors by consumer lifestyle in Korea: a cross-sectional study: Jounghee Lee, Juhyun Lee, Wookyoung Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):75-88. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00332

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study aims to identify and analyze how different South Korean lifestyles impact attitudes towards pork consumption.
Methods
We implemented a cross-sectional survey targeting 705 adult consumers in South Korea using hierarchical and K-means cluster analyses. Respondents were classified into three relevant lifestyles: (1) domestic preference, (2) price-sensitive, and (3) quality-experience-oriented. The importance-performance analysis was employed to evaluate discrepancies between how they rated pork consumption using factors of “importance” and “satisfaction”. We employed Borich’s needs assessment and the Locus for Focus model to prioritize management areas.
Results
The research findings highlight that unpleasant odor/smell (Q7) and hygiene (Q1) were common key areas for management across all consumer groups, emphasizing their importance in enhancing pork consumption satisfaction. Among the groups, the domestic preference group showed high importance-performance discrepancies in attributes like expiry date (D2), suggesting a need for strengthened trust in domestic pork distribution and information transparency. The price-sensitive group prioritized economic factors, with fat thickness (Q8) identified as an essential management area. The quality-experience-oriented group emphasized sensory qualities such as juiciness (Q6) and meat color (Q5), with off-flavors (Q7) displaying the largest discrepancy. These results show the significant role of sensory attributes in consumer satisfaction.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated the multidimensional nature of pork consumption behavior, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies across consumer groups. Managing hygiene (Q1) and reducing off-flavors (Q7) are critical for all segments, while group-specific strategies include managing sensory quality for the quality-experience-oriented group, providing product information (D2) to increase trust for the domestic preference group, and emphasizing value for money for the price-sensitive group.

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[English]
Nutrition quotient for preschoolers and key impacting factors in Korea: a cross-sectional study on food literacy, social support, and the food environment of primary caregivers: Danbi Gwon, Ji-Yun Hwang, Jieun Oh; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):16-26. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00311

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study evaluated the nutrition quotient for preschoolers (NQ-P) and analyzed the impact of key factors, such as caregivers’ food literacy, social support, and food environment, on the eating habits of preschool children in Korea. This study also sought to provide foundational data for developing tailored nutrition education programs by identifying the nutrition education needs of caregivers.
Methods
This study was conducted among caregivers of preschool children (aged 0–6 years) using an online self-administered survey conducted from August 22 to August 28, 2023. A total of 1,116 survey responses were analyzed. This study assessed children’s NQ-P score, caregivers’ food literacy, social support, food environment, and nutritional education needs. Data were analyzed using SPSS 29.0 (IBM Co.).
Results
The average NQ-P score for preschool children was 52, showing a tendency for the balance score to decrease and the moderation score to increase with age. Children from rural and low-income areas exhibited significantly lower NQ-P scores. Caregivers’ food literacy was higher in urban and higher-income groups. Multiple regression analysis revealed that social support, food literacy, income, and food environment significantly affected children's NQ-P scores. The effectiveness of nutrition education varied based on the income level, with nutrition education on healthy eating being the most preferred topic for preschool children.
Conclusion
This study confirmed that caregivers’ food literacy and social support significantly affected preschool children’s nutritional status. This suggests a need for tailored nutritional education and dietary support policies, particularly for low-income and rural populations.

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Cluster-Based Evaluation of Dietary Guideline Adherence and Food Literacy Among Adolescents: Implications for Tailored Diets
Jimin Lim, Jieun Oh
Nutrients.2026; 18(2): 241. CrossRef
Development and usability evaluation of a web-based healthy eating practice questionnaire for Korean preschool children: a child–parent dyad approach
Young-Hee Han, Dawon Park, Dahyeon Kim, Saerom Shin, Eun Yeol Woo, Hye-Kyung Park, Taisun Hyun
Nutrition Research and Practice.2026; 20(1): 132. CrossRef
Nutrition literacy and socio-demographic determinants among Chinese women of childbearing age
Jing-Jing Meng, Jun Chen, Li Pu, Yan Zhu, Yan Zuo, Fang Wang, Li Chang, Yi-Ying He, Jian-Jun Zhang, Zhi-Lan Bai, Si-Qin Sun, Jie Liu, Jia Shi
Frontiers in Public Health.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Dietary intake and eating behaviors by weight status among rural preschool children: NQ-P analysis
Ji-Sook Park, Hyojung Lee, Jaehee An, Jung-Eun Yim
Journal of Nutrition and Health.2026; 59(1): 63. CrossRef
The transition of nutritional status in infants, young children, and school-aged children in Korea and future-oriented nutritional strategies: a narrative review
Yoonna Lee
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2026; 31(2): 115. CrossRef
Exploring predictors of low nutritional literacy in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a machine learning and network analysis approach
Ling Yao, Yanling Liu, Xufeng Tan, Sisi Chen, Yanchun Fang
Frontiers in Public Health.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Effects of primary caregivers’ food literacy, social support, food environment, and household income on the nutritional status of school-aged children: a cross-sectional study
Seyeon Park, Ji-Yun Hwang, Sohyun Park, Hyun Joo Ryou, Jieun Oh
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2025; 30(5): 352. CrossRef

5,048 View
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[Korean]
Co-occurrence network and pattern of school lunch using big data and text-mining using data from the 2021–2023 school meal menu information on the NEIS open educational information portal: an exploratory study: Hyeyun Kang, Jimi Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(6):514-527. Published online December 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00297

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Objectives
This study aimed to use big data from elementary, middle, and high school lunches to determine the primary food groups and menu items that contribute to lunch meals through text-mining and investigate the variations in food groups and menu composition patterns across different grade levels.
Methods
Between 2021 and 2023, a total of 7,892,456 lunch menus from 17 cities and provinces in South Korea were analyzed using big data from the National Education Information System (NEIS) system. After undergoing text preprocessing for text-mining, the collected menus were classified into 34 food groups based on primary ingredients and cooking methods, excluding the types of rice and kimchi. Subsequently, analyses of term frequency, term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF), centrality, and co-occurrence networks were performed on the food group and menu data.
Results
According to the TF-IDF, the most frequent food group across all grade levels was soup and seasoned vegetables, whereas milk was the most frequently provided menu. As the grade level increased, the frequency of grilled and fried food increased. In elementary schools, fruits exhibited the highest centrality, whereas soup had the highest centrality in middle and high schools. Co-occurrence frequency revealed that the soup-fruit combination was the most common in elementary schools, whereas soup and seasoned vegetables were most frequently paired in middle and high schools. The co-occurrence network of food groups and menus further indicated that menus regularly provided as standard meals and those frequently offered as special meals formed distinct communities.
Conclusion
This study investigated the food groups and menu provision patterns in school meals through text-mining techniques applied to large-scale school lunch. The findings may contribute in enhancing the quality of nutritional management, school foodservice, and menu composition of school meal programs.

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Dietary patterns and diet quality among adults in their 20s according to rice consumption: a co-occurrence network analysis using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2019–2021
Eun-kyung Kim, Jin-Young Lee, Yong-Seok Kwon, Minji Kang
Journal of Nutrition and Health.2025; 58(6): 571. CrossRef

3,338 View
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1 Crossref

Research Note

[English]
A pilot investigation of a combined food literacy and exercise program for college students: a one-group pre-post intervention study: Minjeong Jeong, Jinhyun Kim, Dahye Han, Eunjin Jang, Kyoungho Choi, Sohyun Park; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(6):455-466. Published online December 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00248

Abstract PDF

Objectives
A campus-based intervention to enhance food literacy (FL) and establish exercise habits among college students was developed and the program’s effectiveness was evaluated.
Methods
The 13-session program was developed based on the transtheoretical model and social cognitive theory. Junior and senior students majoring in food and nutrition and physical education were asked to participate as mentors, with freshmen and sophomores from varied majors as mentees. The program encompassed food, nutrition, and exercise lessons including cooking sessions. Data were collected via pre- and post-program surveys using a questionnaire consisting of items on FL and nutrition behaviors and physical fitness measurements.
Results
Among 39 participants (35.9% male, 64.1% female), the overall FL score increased significantly from 64.1 to 70.6 post-program (P = 0.001). Significant increases were observed in the nutrition and safety (P < 0.001), cultural and relational (P = 0.023), and socio-ecological (P = 0.001) domains, as well as knowledge (P = 0.001), self-efficacy (P = 0.013), attitude (P < 0.001), and behavior (P = 0.005) items in three domains of FL. Additionally, meal duration increased significantly (P = 0.007) and sit-up performance among female showed a meaningful change (P = 0.046). Changes in dietary behaviors significantly progressed (P = 0.015) while that in exercise habits approached a marginal significance (P = 0.053) after the intervention.
Conclusion
The results reveal positive changes in FL and some modifications in eating habits, although the program had limited effects on physical activity and fitness measurements. These findings suggest that strategic approaches to foster exercise behavior changes in college students are required. This pilot program can serve as foundational data for improving and expanding multicomponent health promotion programs for this population.

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Food literacy as a moderator in the relationship between food security and dietary diversity among adults in Seoul: based on the 2021–2023 Seoul Food Survey
Minjeong Jeong, Jinhyun Kim, Dahye Han, Eunseo Lee, Eunjin Jang, Sarang Jeong, Sohyun Park
Nutrition Research and Practice.2026; 20(3): 490. CrossRef
The Dragon Fruit Advantage: Exploring University Students’ Experiences and Perceptions of a Targeted Nutrition Education Module
Adelfa Silor, Faith Stephanny C. Silor
Seminars in Medical Writing and Education.2025; 4: 924. CrossRef

3,613 View
69 Download
2 Crossref

Research Articles

[Korean]
Food purchase patterns, food policy recognition, and food environment satisfaction among adults in Jeju, Korea, according to food security: a cross-sectional study: Sumin Kim, Youjeong Jang, Hyunji Ham, Hanbin Ko, Insuk Chai, Kyungho Ha; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(5):406-417. Published online October 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00012

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Objectives
Recently, food insecurity has been a major public health issue along with the food crisis caused by COVID-19, climate change, and the polarization of food supply due to socioeconomic disparities. Food insecurity is known to be related to the food choices and environment of the consumer. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the food security statuses of adults in Jeju and investigate their food purchase patterns, food policy recognition, and food environment satisfaction.
Methods
Based on data from the 2022 Jeju Food Survey, 346 adults aged ≥19 years in Jeju were classified into food security and insecurity groups (quantitatively and qualitatively) using the questionnaire. Food purchase patterns, including purchasing frequency, items, and reasons, were surveyed for local and eco-friendly foods. The recognition and necessity of several food policies and satisfaction with diet and food environment (availability, accessibility, affordability, accommodation, and acceptability) were measured using the Likert scale.
Results
Among the total participants, 47.4% were in the food insecurity group. The frequency of purchasing local and eco-friendly foods did not significantly differ by food security status. The insecurity group exhibited a higher recognition rate of basic rights to food (36.0%) than the security group (24.7%, P = 0.023). The recognition and necessity of specific food policies did not significantly differ by food security status, except for the policy of promoting food communities, for which the food security group exhibited higher recognition than the food insecurity group did (P = 0.004). The food insecurity group exhibited significantly lower scores regarding satisfaction toward diet and food environment factors (P < 0.05 for all).
Conclusions
Overall, the food security group reported higher satisfaction with their diet and food environment than the food insecurity group. Further in-depth studies to investigate the determinants of food insecurity and effective promotional strategies for food policies are needed.

3,201 View
63 Download

[English]
Associations between the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and dietary and lifestyle behavior among young Korean adults: a preliminary cross-sectional study: Soheun Shim, Jeong-Hwa Choi, Young-Ran Heo; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(5):396-405. Published online October 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00011

Abstract PDF: Objectives
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a clinical condition caused by esophageal tissue damage resulting from the reflux of stomach or duodenal contents. An increasing number of GERD cases have been reported recently; however, research on this population, especially young adults, is lacking. This study aimed to investigate the dietary and lifestyle factors associated with GERD symptoms in young Korean adults. Methods: A total of 202 individuals (19–34 years old) living in Gwangju were surveyed using a questionnaire to examine their general characteristics, lifestyle, and dietary behaviors. GERD symptoms were investigated using the gastroesophageal reflux disease questionnaire (GerdQ). The participants were grouped into normal (GerdQ score ≤ 4) and caution (GerdQ score ≥ 5), and their characteristics were analyzed according to the group. Results: The findings suggested 15 participants (7.4%) belonged to the GERD caution group. More non-office workers were in the caution group than in the normal group (P < 0.05). The participants’ smoking, physical activity, sleep duration, and pillow height were not significantly different between the GERD phenotypes; however, the caution group consumed alcohol more frequently than the normal group (P < 0.001). The analyses of the participants’ eating behaviors revealed that the frequency of overeating, late-night snacking and chocolate consumption was significantly higher in the caution group (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Lifestyle and dietary behaviors were associated with GERD symptoms in young Korean adults. Further studies with larger cohorts are required to confirm these findings.

7,235 View
97 Download

[Korean]
The needs and prioritization of nutrition and dietary support for individuals with disabilities: an exploratory study: Jong Eun Park, Yu Jin Kim, So Young Kim, Jong Hyock Park; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(5):431-443. Published online October 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00009

Abstract PDF

Objectives
Based on a survey of officers, social workers, and dietitians involved in managing nutrition and welfare policies or projects for vulnerable groups in local governments or private welfare institutions, this study aimed to assess the need for nutritional and dietary support policies and programs for persons with disabilities (PWD), as well as to identify appropriate support measures. Methods: An online survey was conducted from March 2 to 15, 2021. The survey included 20 questions exploring perspectives on the nutritional status of PWD, their need for nutritional and dietary support policies and programs, and the prioritization of appropriate support measures. A total of 132 responses were analyzed. Results: Approximately 68.9% of the respondents rated the nutritional status of PWD as “bad” or “very bad.” A substantial number identified “difficulty in purchasing ingredients, cooking, and preparing meals independently due to disability,” and “limited knowledge about nutrition and recipes necessary for maintaining a healthy and balanced diet” as the primary challenges in the dietary and nutritional management of this population. Additionally, 97.0% of the respondents deemed that the introduction of nutritional and dietary support policies and programs for PWD was “needed” or “very much needed.” Priority strategies to implement and strengthen these policies and systems included the “development of customized programs and services tailored to the needs and demands of the target population” and the “establishment of a dedicated department with specialized personnel.” Conclusion: Comprehensive nutritional and dietary support policies and programs should be actively implemented to ensure a healthy and stable diet for PWD, tailored to meet their actual needs and demands.

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Research trends in dietary behaviors and nutrition education among individuals with developmental disabilities in Korea: a scoping review (2015–2025)
Nakyung Kwak, Wonyeong Park, Yu-Ri Kim, Jieun Oh
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2026; 31(1): 1. CrossRef
Development of a standard nutrition management model algorithm for personalized care in social welfare facilities for the disabled
Su-Jin Lee, Ji-Won Kang, Sil Ah Kim, Kirang Kim, Sohyun Park, Jieun Oh, Hyunjoo Ryou, Ji-Yun Hwang
Journal of Nutrition and Health.2025; 58(5): 498. CrossRef
Factors associated with nutritional risk among disabled persons in the Republic of Korea: a cross-sectional study using 2020 Disability and Life Dynamics Panel
Seong-Ah Kim, Seul Ki Choi
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2025; 30(5): 364. CrossRef

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3 Crossref

[English]
Exploring the customer perceived value of online grocery shopping: a cross-sectional study of Korean and Chinese consumers using Means-End Chain theory: Xinyu Jiang, Hyo Bin Im, Min A Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(4):318-335. Published online August 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00007

Abstract PDF

Objectives
Despite the growing market share of online grocery shopping, there is a need to understand customer perceived value due to the ongoing advancements in information technology. This study explores the connections between attributes, consequences, and values. Additionally, it conducts a cross-country comparison of consumers’ online grocery shopping behaviors to gain a deeper understanding of consumer market segments and any potential variations among them.
Methods
Data was collected through an online questionnaire survey conducted from May 1 to 15, 2024, targeting 400 consumers in Seoul, Korea, and Shanghai, China, who have experience with online grocery shopping. The survey utilized the Means-End Chain theory and association pattern technique hard laddering. Data collation and analysis were conducted using the IBM SPSS Statistics 28.0 program. The LadderUX software was employed to analyze the links between attributes, consequences, and values and create the consumer purchasing process’s implication matrix and hierarchical value map (HVM).
Results
The study identified key attributes that influence online grocery shopping decisions, including delivery service, price, freshness, and quality. Korean consumers demonstrated a higher sensitivity to price (19.0%) and delivery service (17.0%). In contrast, Chinese consumers prioritized delivery service (15.0%) and after-sales service (14.8%). Commonly cited consequences included time saving (12.6% for Koreans, 11.3% for Chinese), whereas prevalent values encompassed convenience (36.8% for Koreans, 19.6% for Chinese) and economic value (26.6% for Koreans, 14.7% for Chinese). The HVM underscored these insights, highlighting diverse consumer preferences and country-specific nuances.
Conclusions
The findings highlight the current state of online food consumption and consumers’ value systems, revealing variations among countries. These findings offer empirical insights that can be used to create customized global marketing strategies that resonate with various consumer preferences and market dynamics.

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Beyond the stage: how performing arts tourism shapes tourist perceptions and destination image
Islam Elbayoumi Salem, Mohammed Ali Bait Ali Sulaiman, Enrico di Bella, Sara Preti, Mohamed Kamal Abdien, Ahmed Magdy
Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights.2026; 9(1): 375. CrossRef
Decoding digital market power: a network-based framework for consumer behaviour and strategic advantage
Larissa M. Batrancea, Ömer Akgüller, Mehmet Ali Balcı, Anca Nichita, Mircea-Iosif Rus
Journal of Marketing Analytics.2026;[Epub] CrossRef

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[English]
Total sugar intake and its contributed foods by age groups in Koreans using the 8th (2019–2021) Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: a cross-sectional study: Hyejin Yu, Sang-Jin Chung; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(3):222-233. Published online June 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.29.3.222

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study was conducted to investigate the status of total sugar intake and contributing foods in Korea according to age groups.
Methods
This study used 24-hour dietary recall data from the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2019–2021) to investigate the nutritional and total sugar intake status among Koreans. A total of 18,338 research participants (≥3 years old) were included in this study. To analyze the types of foods contributing to total sugar intake, these foods were categorized into 15 types. Moreover, we examined the total sugar intake and ranked the most consumed foods by age groups (3–11 years, 12–18 years, 19–34 years, 35–49 years, 50–64 years, over 65 years). A survey procedure was employed for statistical analysis.
Results
The energy intake ratio from total sugars was approximately 12%–15%, which was within the recommended range. However, the proportion of individuals consuming total sugar exceeding 20% of their total caloric intake is nearly 20%, raising concerns about excessive sugar consumption. Furthermore, the percentage of participants whose intake of sugar from processed foods exceeded 10% of their total calories was highest in the 12–18 age group at 37.1%, followed by the 3–11 age group at 35.2%, and the 19–34 age group at 34.0%. Carbonated drinks, cola, and cider were the primary foods consumed by children and adolescents (3–18 years old) and young adults (19–34 years old). For middle-aged and older adults, mixed coffee with sugar and cream was a prominent contributor to sugar intake.
Conclusions
This study investigated sugar consumption patterns among Koreans, finding the principal foods contributing to this intake. Identifying these contributors is pivotal, given their potential impact on public health.

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Psychosocial factors related to the stages of change in reducing sugar intake among adults in Seoul, Korea: a cross-sectional study
Ju Young Lee, Kyung Won Kim
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2026; 31(1): 21. CrossRef
Associations of self-efficacy and perceived benefits and barriers with sugar-sweetened beverage consumption patterns: a secondary analysis of the 2017–2020 Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (NAHSIT)
Chi-Hsuan Liu, Chyi-Huey Bai, Te-Chih Wong, Shu-Chen Lee, Yi-Chun Chen
Frontiers in Nutrition.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Ten-year trends in sugar-sweetened beverages consumption among Koreans, 2014–2023
HyunJi Son, Khongorzul Ganbat, SuJin Song
Nutrition Research and Practice.2026; 20(4): 683. CrossRef

18,902 View
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[English]
Developing educational videos to inform rightly about school foodservice from kindergarten to high school: a case study: Gyoungok Gang, Chaewon Park, Haejin Kang, Wan Soo Hong, Yoo Kyoung Park, Sook Hee Choi, Seung Hye Kim, Jieun Choi, Jihyun Park, Hyeja Chang; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(2):97-113. Published online April 24, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.29.2.97

Abstract PDF: Objectives
Since the enactment of the School Nutrition Act in 1981, school lunch programs in South Korea have grown quantitatively and qualitatively with a current student participation rate of 99.8%. Nonetheless, educational materials are needed to reduce misunderstanding and ignorance about school lunch programs. This study aimed to develop 3 educational videos that help students of various ages (kindergarteners/lower-grade elementary, upper-grade elementary, and secondary school, respectively), understand the school lunch program.
Methods
A scenario was created, was made, and the opinions on the scenario from experts in foodservice sectors were collected. A survey was conducted to students and parents to determine topics they wanted to know about school foodservice. The final videos were produced using this information and the expert opinions. The data were analyzed using SPSS 27.0 for Mac (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA); a P-value of < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results
Three videos on school foodservice were developed for various age levels of students: kindergarten/lower-grade elementary, upper-grade elementary, and secondary school. Additionally, English subtitles were included for the multicultural student population. These videos, each lasting about 7 minutes, cover topics such as nutrition, hygiene, and the cultural significance of the school lunch program. The survey results showed that parents and students wanted to know the following topics about the school lunch program: “nutritionally balanced diet” (11.9%), “purchasing safe food ingredients” (10.9%), and “healthy eating habits” (9.9%).
Conclusions
The developed videos will serve as valuable educational resources on school foodservice, foster a deeper understanding of the school lunch program in parents and students, and potentially address their inquiries regarding production processes, nutrition, hygiene, cultural heritage, and health.

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[English]
Arterial stiffness index, physical activity and food and nutrient intake: cross-sectional study in adults aged 40 years and older: Eun-A Kim, Yun-Mi Kim, Eun-Kyung Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(2):81-96. Published online April 24, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.29.2.81

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study aimed to investigate arterial stiffness index, physical activity, and food and nutrient intake in middle-aged adults over 40 years when the incidence of cardiovascular disease begins to increase.
Methods
This study included 106 subjects (48 males and 58 females) aged between 40 and 64 years. The arterial stiffness index (brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity [baPWV], and ankle-brachial index [ABI]) were measured using a blood pressure pulse wave testing device. Physical activity was assessed using the Korean version of the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, and food and nutrient intake was calculated using the Food Frequency Questionnaire.
Results
The mean age of the subjects was 54.4 years. Although the ABI of the subjects was within the normal range, they were divided into tertiles to compare physical activity and food and nutrient intake. In males, the time spent on moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was significantly higher in T3 (600.6 min/week) than in T1 (304.4 min/week). In females, the time spent in sedentary behavior was significantly lower in T3 (294.5 min/week) than in T1 (472.1 min/week). In addition, the frequency of fish consumption was significantly higher in T3 (1.27 frequency/day) than in T1 (0.64 frequency/day) in females. Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) and ω-3 fatty acid intake, adjusted for energy intake, were significantly positively correlated with ABI (r = 0.200 and r = 0.218, respectively).
Conclusions
High MVPA (in males), low sedentary behavior (in females), and PUFA and ω-3 fatty acid intake through fish consumption may be associated with low peripheral artery stiffness. Therefore, arteriosclerosis can be prevented through physical activity and proper dietary therapy.

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Effectiveness of Omega-3 Supplementation on Arterial Stiffness: A Systematic Review
Jacqueline Marlene Ibarra-Peso, Mariel Alejandra Lobos-Farias, Felipe Antonio Albarrán-Torres, Erislandis López-Galán, Miguel Enrique Sánchez-Hechavarria
Medicina.2026; 62(8): 1553. CrossRef

1,978 View
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1 Crossref

[Korean]
Association of ultra-processed food with diabetes and impaired fasting glucose in elderly populations (urban and rural): a cross-sectional study: Seung Jae Lee, Mi Sook Cho; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(1):51-64. Published online February 29, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.29.1.51

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study examined the association between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and chronic diseases in elderly Koreans.
Methods
Data from the 2019–2021 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. Dietary intake and UPF consumption were assessed using the NOVA food classification based on 24-hour recall data from 3,790 participants (aged 65+ years). Participants were divided into 4 groups based on the quartile of energy intake from UPFs. Regions were classified as urban or rural. Multivariable logistic regression was employed to estimate the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) after controlling for potential confounders.
Results
Among the participants, 71.3% resided in urban and 28.7% in rural areas. Compared to the urban elderly, rural participants tended to be older, have lower education and income levels, be more likely to live in single-person households, and have a higher smoking rate (P < 0.05). Urban elderly consumed more UPFs daily (146.1 g) compared to rural residents (126.6 g; P < 0.05). “Sugar-sweetened beverages” were the most consumed category in both regions. “Sweetened milk and its products” and “traditional sauces” were prominent in urban areas, while rural elderly consumed more “traditional sauces” and “distilled alcoholic beverages.” Rural areas also had a higher carbohydrate-to-calorie ratio than urban areas. Compared to the lowest quartile of UPF intake, the highest quartile was significantly associated with impaired fasting glucose only in rural areas (AOR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.00–2.19; P for trend = 0.0014). No significant associations were observed for diabetes in either urban or rural areas.
Conclusions
This study suggests that high intake of UPFs is associated with increased odds of impaired fasting glucose in rural elderly. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific negative health effects of UPFs in different populations, and targeted efforts should promote healthy diets in both urban and rural areas.

Citations

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Ultra-Processed Foods and Cardiometabolic Health: A Review of Current Evidence
Nazlıcan Erdoğan Gövez, Eda Köksal
Current Nutrition Reports.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
노인의 사회활동 참여 정도와 영양상태와의 관계
지수 백, 영란 허
Korean Journal of Food and Cookery Science.2025; 41(6): 418. CrossRef
A Study of the Chemosensory Properties of Commercial Processed Foods Using Electronic Sensors
Hyeonjin Park, Younglan Ban, Sojeong Yoon, Hyangyeon Jeong, Seong Jun Hong, Hee Sung Moon, Se Young Yu, Hyun-Wook Kim, Kyeong Soo Kim, Eun Ju Jeong, Eui-Cheol Shin
Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition.2024; 53(8): 805. CrossRef
Analysis of Flavor and Taste Patterns of Various Processed Animal Foods: Using the Electronic Tongue and Nose
Hee Sung Moon, Se Young Yu, Younglan Ban, Hyeonjin Park, Sojeong Yoon, Na Eun Yang, Seong Jun Hong, Hyun-Wook Kim, Kyeong Soo Kim, Eun Ju Jeong, Eui-Cheol Shin
Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition.2024; 53(12): 1267. CrossRef

3,205 View
101 Download
4 Crossref

[Korean]
Knowledge on complementary foods of mothers with young children and their perception of convenience complementary foods: Yoojeong Joo, Jihyun Yoon, Linxi Huang, Youngmin Nam; Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(1):16-33. Published online February 29, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.29.1.16; Correction in: Korean J Community Nutr 2024;29(2):171

Abstract PDF

Objectives
The purpose of this study was to examine mothers’ knowledge levels on complementary foods and their perception of convenience complementary foods.
Methods
An online survey was conducted with mothers aged 20–49 years who had purchased convenience complementary foods and had a preschool child aged 4 months or older. The respondents were categorized into 3 groups based on their knowledge scores: low- (0–50 points), mid- (55–65 points), and high- (70–100 points) knowledge groups.
Results
The average score of mothers’ knowledge on complementary foods was 58.8 out of 100 points. Working mothers were found to have lower levels of knowledge compared to mothers who were housewives. Only 1/4 of responding mothers had educational experience on complementary foods. Mothers expressed a desire for information on the types of complementary foods (72.2%) and the intake amounts (60.3%) corresponding to each phase of their child’s development. Multivariate analysis of variance revealed significant differences in health (P = 0.002), variety (P = 0.039), and hygiene (P = 0.041) among the factors taken into consideration when purchasing convenience complementary foods according to the mothers’ knowledge levels. Mothers in the high-knowledge group placed a greater importance on ‘balanced nutrition’ (P = 0.022) and ‘hygienic cooking’ (P = 0.010) compared to mothers in the low-knowledge group. The results of the modified importance-performance analysis, which compared the importance and performance of the factors taken into consideration when purchasing convenience complementary foods, highlighted the need for efforts in ‘health,’ ‘hygiene,’ and ‘price,’ while also indicating an excessive effort in ‘convenience.’
Conclusions
This study suggests expanding relevant education programs to enhance mothers’ knowledge on complementary foods, especially for working mothers. In the industry, marketing strategies for complementary food products could be developed that align with the needs of mothers, focusing on health, hygiene, and price.

Citations

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Development and Evaluation of a Nutrition Education Website for the Prevention and Management of Childhood Obesity
Miyong Yon, Chan Park, Kwan-Hee Yoo, Taisun Hyun
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2012; 17(4): 390. CrossRef
Breakfast Skipping and Related Factors in Children in Poverty
Kyung Ja June, Jin-Young Kim, Seungmi Park, Ji Yun Lee
Journal of Korean Academy of Community Health Nursing.2011; 22(2): 204. CrossRef

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Educational Materialses

[Korean]
Systematization of food and nutrition education content based on national kindergarten curriculum: a qualitative formative study: Jung-Hyun Kim, Eugene Shim, Eunyoung Baik; Korean J Community Nutr 2023;28(6):509-522. Published online December 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2023.28.6.509

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study is intended to develop a curriculum for kindergarten food and nutrition education aimed at preschool children, reflecting government policy and meeting the demands of preschool settings.
Methods
Existing educational materials were analyzed, and key elements of the 2019 Revised Nuri Curriculum (“Nuri Curriculum”) and Guidelines for Nutrition and Food Education in Kindergartens, Elementary, Middle, and High Schools (“Guidelines”) were examined as foundational information for developing the curriculum for food and nutrition education.
Results
Basing ourselves on the five domains of the Nuri Curriculum, “Physical Activity and Health,” “Communication,” “Social Relationships,” “Art Experience,” and “Natural Science Inquiry,” we integrated three areas from the Guidelines, namely “Dietary Habits and Health,” “Dietary Habits and Safety,” and “Dietary Habits and Culture,” to structure the curriculum for kindergarten food and nutrition education. Three specific domains, “Nutrition and Health,” “Food and Culture,” and “Safe Dietary Practices,” were tailored for preschool children, each comprising core concepts, content elements, and educational materials. In the “Nutrition and Health” domain, core concepts such as “nutrition” were addressed through content elements such as “balanced eating” and “vegetables and fruit,” while “health” included elements such as “eating regularly” and “nutrients for disease prevention,” each with two educational content components. The “Food and Culture” domain focused on “food” with content on “local foods (vegetable-garden experience)” and “food culture” with content on “our dining table (rice and side dishes),” “our agricultural products,” “global cuisine (multiculture),” and “considerate dietary practices,” each with four educational content components. The “Safe Dietary Practices” domain included core concepts such as “hygiene” with content on “hand-washing habits” and “food poisoning management,” and “safety” with content on “food labeling.”
Conclusions
The systematized curriculum for kindergarten food and nutrition education aligns with the Nuri Curriculum and is interconnected with the Guidelines. This curriculum can be used as foundational material for developing educational resources tailored to the characteristics of preschoolers, contributing to effective implementation in early childhood education.

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Parents' needs and perceptions of dietary and nutrition education in early childhood education institutions in South Korea: a mixed methods study
Jounghee Lee, Sookyung Choi, Minseo Kim, Seonghyun Lim, Jeong-Weon Kim
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2025; 30(6): 441. CrossRef

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1 Crossref

[English]
Development of a campus-based intervention program to strengthen food literacy among university students: A qualitative formative study: Eunji Ko, Eunjin Jang, Jiwon Sim, Minjeong Jeong, Sohyun Park; Korean J Community Nutr 2023;28(6):495-508. Published online December 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2023.28.6.495

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study aimed to develop a campus-based intervention program to enhance food literacy (FL) among university students.
Methods
In the initial phase, we conducted a literature review of FL intervention studies and held in-depth interviews with university students to identify facilitators and barriers to improving and practicing FL. Expert counseling sessions were conducted with nutrition education, marketing, and service design professionals. The results of this phase led to the creation of an initial curriculum draft. In the second phase, a follow-up survey was conducted with young adults to assess the acceptability of the developed curriculum. After the follow-up survey, additional meetings were conducted with the aforementioned experts, and the curriculum was further refined based on their input.
Results
An 11-week FL intervention program was devised using constructs from the Social Cognitive Theory. The weekly curriculum consisted of 90-min theory-based and 90-min hands-on experience sessions. Three primary aspects of FL were covered: nutrition and food safety, cultural and relational dimensions, and socio-ecological aspects. Program highlights included cooking sessions for crafting traditional Korean desserts, lectures on animal welfare, insights into zero-waste practices, and communal eating experiences. Based on the study team’s previous research, the program also addressed mindful eating, helping participants understand the relationship with their eating habits, and providing strategies to manage negative emotions without resorting to food. Yoga sessions and local farm visits were incorporated into the curriculum to promote holistic well-being.
Conclusions
This study elucidated the comprehensive process of creating a campus-based curriculum to enhance FL among university students, a group particularly susceptible to problematic eating behaviors and low FL levels. The developed program can serve as a blueprint for adaptation to other campuses seeking to bolster students’ FL.

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Determinants of Dietary Quality Among Adults in Selected Rural and Urban Areas of Tanzania: The Role of General Self‐Efficacy and Food Literacy: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Victoria Kariathi, Hadijah Mbwana, Constance Rybak, Safiness Simon Msollo, Hannah Wesley
Advances in Public Health.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Exploring the literacy-behaviour among agricultural science university students
Isaac Kwasi Asante, Auswell Amfo-Antiri, Selorm Omega, Reindorf Ansah, Justice Mensah, Prince Akoto, Alex Williams, Fadila Uthman
Discover Food.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Effects of nutrition class with cooking lab on college students’ eating behaviors and well-being in the United States: a mixed-methods study
Borham Yoon, Kyungyul Jun
Nutrition Research and Practice.2025; 19(2): 305. CrossRef
The Dragon Fruit Advantage: Exploring University Students’ Experiences and Perceptions of a Targeted Nutrition Education Module
Adelfa Silor, Faith Stephanny C. Silor
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Evaluating the effectiveness of a food literacy pilot program for university students: using a mixed-methods research approach
Eunji Ko, Eunjin Jang, Jiwon Sim, Minjeong Jeong, Sohyun Park
Nutrition Research and Practice.2024; 18(6): 885. CrossRef
A pilot investigation of a combined food literacy and exercise program for college students: a one-group pre-post intervention study
Minjeong Jeong, Jinhyun Kim, Dahye Han, Eunjin Jang, Kyoungho Choi, Sohyun Park
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2024; 29(6): 455. CrossRef

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6 Crossref

Research Articles

[Korean]
Food and dish group diversity on menus of daycare centers provided by Center for Children’s Foodservice Management in Korea: a descriptive study: Youn-Rok Kang, Kyeong-Sook Lim, Hyung-Sook Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2023;28(6):449-465. Published online December 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2023.28.6.449

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study aimed to analyze menu patterns and food group diversity in daycare centers managed by the Center for Children's Foodservice Management in South Korea.
Methods
Data from 18 Center for Children's Foodservice Management centers across various provinces (excluding Jeju Island) were analyzed. We examined 8,796 meals served in February, May, August, and December 2021, focusing on seasonal lunch and snack menus for children aged 3-5. Foods were categorized into 19 groups for lunch and 21 for snacks. The frequency of food groups and dietary patterns were assessed using the Dietary Diversity Score. Analyses were conducted using Excel 2016 and IBM SPSS Statistics version 28.
Results
Most lunch menus (89%) included five menu items, with a ratio of grain, meat, and vegetables at 88%. Snack menus typically had one item (57%), with significantly more items in the afternoon compared to the morning (P < 0.001). Regarding snack patterns, 75.2% of morning snacks and 61.1% of afternoon snacks contained only one solid food and drink (P < 0.001). Fruit and milk (22.4%) was the most prevalent pattern in morning snacks, while grain and milk (31%) dominated afternoon snacks (P < 0.001). Only 48% of daycare center menus (all snacks and lunch) included all five food groups (grain, meat, vegetables, fruit, and milk). Notably, only 83% included milk and 57% included fruit.
Conclusions
These findings highlight the need to improve food variety and diversity in the Center for Children’s Foodservice Management-managed daycare center menus. Developing more detailed guidelines for menu structure and food composition is crucial to ensure children receive balanced and diverse nutrition.

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Nutrient intake and food consumption of Korean preschool children: a comparison between a daycare meal group and non-daycare meal group using the data from the 2016–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Young-Hee Han, Taisun Hyun
Nutrition Research and Practice.2025; 19(2): 225. CrossRef

2,069 View
55 Download
1 Crossref

[Korean]
Understanding consumer awareness and utilization of local food in Jecheon during the COVID-19 pandemic: a descriptive study: Hye-ryeong Shin, Soojin Park; Korean J Community Nutr 2023;28(4):329-339. Published online August 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2023.28.4.329

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study aims to explore consumer awareness and usage patterns of local food in Jecheon city during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to the establishment of the Jecheon City Food Plan.
Methods
Surveys were conducted from July 24 to August 24, 2021, using a combination of web-link and self-administered methods for adults living in Jecheon city (n = 250). Descriptive analysis, t-test, importance and satisfaction analysis (ISA) of local food choice attributes were performed using SPSS Statistics.
Results
Participants prioritized freshness when purchasing agricultural products. The freshness of Jecheon local food was the selection attribute with the highest consumer satisfaction and could provide purchase motivation. Approximately 73.6% of respondents understood the concept of local food, and 70% were familiar with Jecheon's local food. Notably, 94.8% expressed an intention to purchase but held negative views on selling local food in other areas. The need to increase the supply of local food to vulnerable populations and public school catering was highly recognized. The ISA identified ‘affordable price’, ‘delivery service’, and ‘product information’ as areas requiring improvement. On the other hand, ‘freshness of products’, ‘quality for the price’, and ‘support for local farmers and economy’ were identified as attributes to be maintained and strengthened.
Conclusions
Consumers in Jecheon city recognized local foods as more than just 'consumer goods’. Our findings suggest the need for further research on local food revitalization and more comprehensive local food planning to enhance consumer satisfaction.

2,677 View
22 Download

[English]
The frequency of convenience food consumption and attitude of sodium and sugar reduction among middle and high school students in Seoul: a descriptive study: Seoyeon Park, Yeonhee Shin, Seoyeon Lee, Heejung Park; Korean J Community Nutr 2023;28(4):269-281. Published online August 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2023.28.4.269

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study aimed to examine the frequency of convenience food consumption at convenience stores (CVS) and the CVS usage patterns of middle and high school students as well as to understand students’ attitude toward sodium and sugar reduction.
Methods
We used an online questionnaire for data collection. The questionnaire comprised five distinct categories: general characteristics, CVS usage, frequency of consumption according to convenience food menus at CVS, attitude toward sodium and sugar reduction, and adherence to dietary guidelines.
Results
A total of 75 students from Seoul (14 middle school students and 61 high school students) participated in the study. Most respondents visit CVS 3-5 times a week. CVS are predominantly used during weekdays, mostly during lunch, and dinner. The students mostly checked the caloric content and expiration date as food labeling information. The participants were aware of the need to reduce their sugar and sodium intake. Among frequent CVS convenience food consumers, there was an increased consideration of the need to reduce their sugar and sodium consumption, despite their actual selection of foods with high sugar and sodium content. Additionally, they did not check the sugar and sodium levels indicated in food labeling. Further, the dietary action guide from the Ministry of Health and Welfare were poorly followed by most students.
Conclusions
There is a need for nutrition education specifically addressing the sugar and sodium content of the convenience foods predominantly consumed by students. Additionally, educating students with frequent convenience food consumption to actively check the sugar and sodium information on food labels could help promote healthier food choices.

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Co-occurrence network and pattern of school lunch using big data and text-mining using data from the 2021–2023 school meal menu information on the NEIS open educational information portal: an exploratory study
Hyeyun Kang, Jimi Kim
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2024; 29(6): 514. CrossRef

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[Korean]
Dietary sodium and potassium intake of Koreans estimated using 2 different sources of their contents in foods, Food & Nutrient Database and the Korean Total Diet Study : a comparative study: Jee Yeon Lee, Sung Ok Kwon, Soo Hyun Lee, Min Jeong Seo, Gae Ho Lee, Cho-il Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2023;28(3):235-244. Published online June 30, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2023.28.3.235

Abstract PDF: Objectives
Based on the results from the Korean Total Diet Study (KTDS), the sodium (Na) and potassium (K) intake of Koreans were estimated and compared with intake estimates from the Food & Nutrient Database (FNDB), as in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) to verify the validity of these estimates.
Methods
One hundred and thirty-four representative foods (RFs) covering 92.5% of the total food intake of Koreans were selected, and 228 pairs of corresponding ‘RF x representative cooking method’ were derived by reflecting the methods used mainly in terms of frequency and quantity in their cooking. RF samples were collected from three cities with a larger population size in three regions (nine cities) nationwide, and six composite samples were made for each RF, considering its regional and/or seasonal characteristics. One thousand three hundred and sixty-eight ‘RF x representative cooking method’ pair samples were prepared, and the Na and K contents were assessed using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-MS). The Na and K intake of the Korean population was estimated by linking the content with the food intake data from the 7th KNHANES.
Results
The mean Na and K intake of Koreans were 2,807.4 mg and 2,335.0 mg per person per day, respectively. A comparison with the Na and K intake from KNHANES, including only RFs of KTDS, showed comparable results with less than 5% variation. While the contribution and ranking of food items to Na intake were similar between KNHANES and KTDS, there were differences in K intake. This was attributed to the large discrepancies in the K content of rice and coffee between KTDS results and the values in the 9th Revision of the National Food Composition Table used in KNHANES.
Conclusions
The Na and K intake of Koreans estimated based on the KTDS, which performed nutrient analysis on samples prepared to a ‘table-ready’ state using foods of the representative collection, was similar and comparable with that of KNHANES. This supports the validity and usefulness of FNDB-based nutrient intake estimation at the population level. The list of nutrients studied in KTDS is expected to be expanded, allowing for intake estimation of nutrients with currently insufficient or absent information in the FNDBs in use.

3,386 View
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[Korean]
Status of Iodine Intake and Comparison of Characteristics according to Iodine-sourced Food Intake Patterns of Chinese Adults: A Study Encompassing Three Regions with Different Iodine Nutritional Statuses: Danying Zhang, Ho Kyung Ryu; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(6):503-514. Published online December 31, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.6.503

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study examines the status of iodine intake and compares the characteristics (region and thyroid disease prevalence) according to the iodine-sourced food intake pattern in Chinese adults.
Methods
An online survey was conducted by enrolling 437 Chinese adults aged 18-65 years, living in three regions with different iodine nutritional statuses: Sichuan, Chongqing, and Guangdong.
Results
The prevalence of thyroid diseases in Sichuan, Chongqing, and Guangdong were 12.5%, 8.5%, and 2.8%, respectively. Conversely, the proportion of people who received thyroid disease-related examinations was a mere 37.5%. Among the subjects who underwent thyroid examination, the prevalence of thyroid disease in the three regions was 32.2%, 21.8%, and 8.0%, respectively. No differences were obtained in the total iodine intake by region, but the type of iodine source foods differed. Regardless of the region, the highest iodine content was obtained from seaweed. However, the iodine content from iodized salt and other foods differed significantly by region. Factor analysis revealed three food intake patterns according to the iodine food source. The study further determined regional differences and differences in the prevalence of thyroid disease according to food intake patterns.
Conclusions
High salt intake can also increase iodine intake, which is thought to have an effect on the occurrence of iodine-excess thyroid disease. Hence, efforts focused on improving salty eating habits need to be implemented.

1,774 View
11 Download

[Korean]
Foodservice Status and Perception regarding Foodservice Management in Kindergartens attached to Elementary Schools in Seoul: Ranmi Jung, Gun-Hee Kim, Jieun Oh, Sunny Ham, Seungmin Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(6):492-502. Published online December 31, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.6.492

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study examines the foodservice status of kindergartens attached to elementary schools in Seoul. We further determine the perception of elementary school principals and kindergarten assistant principals on the foodservice management for kindergartens.
Methods
This survey was conducted from July 17 to 23, 2019, enrolling 207 kindergartens attached to elementary schools in Seoul. Questionnaires were sent to principals of elementary schools and assistant principals of kindergartens, and the data obtained from 89 kindergartens were included in the analysis. The questionnaire consisted of four parts: general information on subjects, foodservice management status, foodservice management status during elementary school vacations, and the perception of principals of elementary schools and assistant principals of kindergartens on foodservice management. Data are presented as frequency and percentage or mean and standard deviation. Statistical comparison between principals of elementary schools and assistant principals of kindergartens was conducted by paired t-test, chi-square test, and Pearson's correlation analysis.
Results
A separate menu (10.1%) or recipe (20.2%) that considers preschooler characteristics was rarely used for foodservice at kindergartens attached to elementary schools. Most kindergartens did not have a separate dining space (3.4%) or a dedicated cook (93.3%). Although most kindergartens (92.1%) had operational foodservice during elementary school vacations, non-professional staff and non-nutrition teacher were mainly in charge of organizing the menu and purchasing ingredients (34.1% and 41.5%, respectively). The rate of using a contract catering company (28.0%, 23.2%) was also high. Both elementary school principals and assistant principals of kindergartens showed a high perception of the necessity for providing responsibility allowances for nutrition teachers and improving the cooking environment for kindergartens during elementary school vacations.
Conclusions
There is a need for policies and administrative support measures to improve the quality of foodservices for kindergartens attached to elementary schools.

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Developing educational videos to inform rightly about school foodservice from kindergarten to high school: a case study
Gyoungok Gang, Chaewon Park, Haejin Kang, Wan Soo Hong, Yoo Kyoung Park, Sook Hee Choi, Seung Hye Kim, Jieun Choi, Jihyun Park, Hyeja Chang
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2024; 29(2): 97. CrossRef
A Study on the Menu Patterns and Menu Diversity of Bibimbap Meals Served by Elementary School Foodservices in the Jeonbuk Area
Sun A Choi, Chohee Mun, Jieun Go, Jeong Ok Rho
Journal of the East Asian Society of Dietary Life.2024; 34(6): 444. CrossRef

1,710 View
17 Download
2 Crossref

[Korean]
Problems Encountered in Analyzing the Market Size, Purchase, and Consumption of HMR in the Republic of Korea: Sung Ok Kwon, Injoo Choi, Yoojeong Joo, Jihyun Yoon; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(6):480-491. Published online December 31, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.6.480

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study examined the problems encountered when analyzing the market size, purchase, and consumption of HMR (home meal replacements) in the Republic of Korea.
Methods
The macro data relevant to the market size and purchase status of HMR were critically summarized. The micro data retrieved from the 2019 & 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) were analyzed to understand the consumption of HMR.
Results
The Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation and the Ministry of Food and Drug Administration reported the market size of HMR, whereas the Korean Rural Economic Institute and the Rural Development Administration reported the purchase expense and frequencies of HMR. Since the values on the market size and purchase status were calculated or surveyed using different scopes of HMR, there have been reliability issues for the data presented. Additionally, lack of consensus on the use of Korean terms corresponding to HMR was found to be a problem. To examine the consumption of HMR, analysis of the food intake data from KNHANES presented results with very low validity due to the inappropriate survey and coding scheme not reflecting the inclusion of new food types.
Conclusions
Several problematic discrepancies were encountered in the statistics on HMR. The fundamental cause of these problems was the absence of agreement on the scope of HMR and the Korean terms corresponding to it. Considering the increasing importance of HMR in Korean diets, urgent cooperative efforts are required between the government and academia to derive an agreed Korean term and establish the scope of HMR.

Citations

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Analysis of Water-Soluble Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B7, and B12 in Commonly Consumed Home Meal Replacement in Korea
Yoonjeong Kim, Min-ju Kim, Jihyeon Yu, Younghwa Kim
Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition.2026; 55(6): 521. CrossRef
Sustainable Human Resource Management in Emergencies: The Case of the Lithuanian Logistics Sector
Kristina Čižiūnienė, Gabrielė Voronavičiūtė, Dragan Marinkovic, Jonas Matijošius
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Evaluation of Thermal Resistance in Geobacillus thermodenitrificans subsp. Calidus and Ureibacillus suwonensis Spores Isolated in Korea
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Gyoungok Gang, Chaewon Park, Hyeja Chang
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Eating behaviors, home meal replacement consumption, and nutrition quotient: a comparative study of male shift and non-shift workers in Chungcheong, Korea
Yeon Jin Lee, Munkyong Pae
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Usage and Quality Satisfaction of Convenience Food at Convenience Stores according to the Eating Behavior of University Students in Southern Gyeonggi Province
Se-In Oh, Ok-Sun Kim
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[Korean]
Development of Korean NOVA Food Classification and Estimation of Ultra-Processed Food Intake Among Adults: Using 2018 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Hae Jin Park, Sohyun Park, Jee Young Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(6):455-467. Published online December 31, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.6.455

Abstract PDF

Objectives
In this study, we suggest a Korean NOVA food classification that can be applied to food consumption among Korean. Based on this suggestion, the nutritional intake of Korean adults from ultra-processed foods (UPFs) was estimated.
Methods
Korean commercial food was categorized based on the NOVA food classification criteria through the Korea Food Code and expert meetings. Then, the nutrient intake status of 6,991 participants in the 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was analyzed according to the food processing level. Then, 4,152 adult participants (age 19-65) were divided into quartiles on the basis of their intake of UPFs, and the nutrient intakes from UPFs were compared.
Results
Korean NOVA Food Classification defines with priority Group I (Unprocessed/ Minimally processed foods) and Group II (Processed culinary ingredients) foods based on the food cooking or consumption. Then, Group III (Processed foods) and Group IV (UPFs) are classified according to whether the characteristics of the raw materials used are maintained or whether the food was consumed before the 1970s. Our analysis results showed that most of the calories in the diet were consumed by Group I (52.7%), followed by Group IV (29.3%). After categorization of the adult participants into four groups according to their energy consumption from UPFs, we found that the highest consumption group (Q4) was younger and had higher percentage of men than women. The comparative analysis of the consumption of ultra-processed foods by Korean adults revealed that participants of a younger age and men consumed higher energy from UPFs than older participants and women, respectively (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the larger intake of UPFs was associated with an increasing trend for a higher intake of energy, sugar, saturated fat (P for trend < 0.001), total fat (P for trend = 0.021), and sodium (P for trend = 0.005), whereas the intake of carbohydrate, protein, and dietary fiber had a decreasing trend (P for trend < 0.001).
Conclusions
With the current increase in the consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods, it is important to carefully consider not only nutrient intake but also the level of food processing.

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Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Domain-Specific Quality of Life in Postmenopausal Women: Associations with Mobility and Mental Health
Byung Soo Kwan, Jung-Hwan Cho, Jun Young Kim, Hye In Kim, Nak Gyeong Ko, Ji Eun Park
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Consumption of ultra-processed foods and major contributing foods according to the age group in Korean adults and older adults: using data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016–2019)
Seulgi Lee, Jee Young Kim, Kirang Kim
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Sukyoung Jung, Eunjin Jang, Hyeongyeong Lee, Jee Young Kim, Sohyun Park
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[Korean]
Development and Effectiveness Evaluation of the STEAM Education Program on Food Groups for Kindergarteners: Jinkyeong Ahn, Seyoen Kim, Donghyuk Kim, Jounghee Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(5):361-372. Published online October 31, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.5.361

Abstract PDF

Objectives
The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education program on the use of specific food groups in improving nutrition-related knowledge and attitude, dietary behavior, creative problem solving, and STEAM attitude.
Methods
We selected two classes at a kindergarten in Jeollabuk-do, South Korea. A total of 44 kindergarteners from the two classrooms participated in this study. The experimental group and the control group were formed with 22 students each. The experimental group attended 11 STEAM classes on the use of the grain, fruit, and milk food groups. First, we performed the paired t-test to examine changes from pre-to-post classes for both groups. Then, we used ANCOVA to compare post-test scores between the experimental and control groups with the adjustment of pre-test scores.
Results
The results demonstrate that the STEAM education program on the use of the food groups significantly improved (1) nutrition-related knowledge and attitude, and dietary behavior (P < 0.001), (2) creative problem solving (P < 0.001), and (3) STEAM attitude (P < 0.001) in the intervention group when compared with the control group.
Conclusions
The STEAM education program on the use of food groups is effective in enhancing nutrition knowledge and attitude, dietary behavior, creative problem solving, and STEAM attitudes among kindergarten students.

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Development and evaluation of play-based food and nutrition education materials for early childhood through sensory experiences: a pre-post observational study
Hyunjoo Ryou, Sohyun Park, Jieun Oh, Ji-Yun Hwang
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2025; 30(6): 471. CrossRef

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[Korean]
Consumption Values of Fast Food according to Health Consciousness in American Consumers: Kiwon Lee, Youngmi Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(4):309-320. Published online August 31, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.4.309

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study aimed to analyze the consumption values of fast foods among American consumers and compare the consumption values according to the levels of health consciousness.
Methods
An online survey using a self-administered questionnaire was conducted on 351 American consumers. Based on the median health consciousness score (3.83 out of 5 points), the subjects were classified into the low health-conscious group (Low group) and the high health-conscious group (High group). Factor analysis was used to extract factors for the five consumption values (functional, social, emotional, conditional, and epistemic values). The differences in the consumption values between the two groups were analyzed.
Results
A total of 14 factors were extracted for the five consumption values and 9 factors among them (convenience, healthiness, and taste in functional values; health-conscious people, young, busy, obese people, low class, and budget restricted people in social values; guilt in emotional values; accidental situations in conditional values) showed significant differences between the two groups. The Low group had a higher perception of the factor of healthiness (P < 0.001) than the High group. The High group had a relatively higher perception of the factors of convenience (P < 0.001), taste (P < 0.001), and guilt (P < 0.001). In addition, the High group perceived the social values of fast foods more negatively. The High group consumed fast foods less frequently than the Low group and perceived their health status and healthiness of eating habits more positively.
Conclusions
The results reveal that the health consciousness level significantly influences consumption value perceptions about fast foods in American consumers. Policymakers and marketers can develop effective strategies based on the results of this study.

1,598 View
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[Korean]
Dietary Iron Intake of Koreans Estimated using 2 Different Sources of Iron Contents are Comparable: Food & Nutrient Database and Iron Contents of Cooked Foods in the Korean Total Diet Study: Jeeyeon Lee, Sung Ok Kwon, Yoonjae Yeoh, Min Jeong Seo, Gae Ho Lee, Cho-il Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(3):245-253. Published online June 30, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.3.245

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study was conducted to find out if the dietary iron intake of Koreans estimated by 2 different methods (iron content sources) using the food intake data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) are comparable. One method was based on the KNHANES's Food & Nutrient Database (FND) derived mainly from the Korean Food Composition Table and the other used the iron content (IC) of food samples processed in the Korean Total Diet Study (KTDS).
Methods
Dietary intake data from the 2013-2016 KNHANES was used to select representative foods (RFs) in KTDS for iron analysis. Selection of the RFs and cooking methods for each RF (RF × cooking method pair) was performed according to the ‘Guidebook for Korean Total Diet Studies’ and resulted in a total of 132 RFs and 224 ‘RF × cooking method’ pairs. RFs were collected in 9 metropolitan cities nationwide once or twice (for those with seasonality) in 2018 and made into 6 composites each, based on the origin and season prior to cooking. Then, the RF composites prepared to a ‘table ready’ state for KTDS were analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Dietary iron intake of the Korean population was estimated using only RFs’ intake data based on the 2 sources of iron content, namely FND-KNHANES and IC-KTDS.
Results
RFs in KTDS covered 92.0% of total food intake of Koreans in the 2016-2018 KNHANES. Mean iron intake of Koreans was 7.77 mg/person/day by IC-KTDS vs 9.73 mg/person/day by FND-KNHANES. The major food groups contributing to iron intake were meats (21.7%), vegetables (20.5%), and grains & cereals (13.4%) as per IC-KTDS. On the other hand, the latter source (FND-KNHANES) resulted in a very different profile: grains & cereals (31.1%), vegetables (16.8%), and meats (15.3%). While the top iron source was beef, accounting for 8.6% in the former, it was polished rice (19.2%) in the latter. There was a 10-fold difference in the iron content of polished rice between 2 sources that iron intakes excluding the contribution by polished rice resulted in very similar values: 7.58 mg/person/day by IC-KTDS and 7.86 mg/person/day by FNDKNHANES.
Conclusions
This study revealed that the dietary iron intake estimated by 2 different methods were quite comparable, excluding one RF, namely polished rice. KTDS was thus proven to be a useful tool in estimating a ‘closer-to-real’ dietary intake of nutrients for Koreans and further research on various nutrients is warranted.

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Nutrients and food intake according to atherogenic index of plasma in Korean postmenopausal women
Ye-Jin Lee, Sun Yung Ly
Journal of Nutrition and Health.2025; 58(1): 87. CrossRef
Iron Consumption and Colorectal Cancer in Korean Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
Sukhong Min, Katherine De la Torre, Hyobin Lee, Woo-Kyoung Shin, Daehee Kang
Nutrients.2025; 17(8): 1309. CrossRef
Dietary sodium and potassium intake of Koreans estimated using 2 different sources of their contents in foods, Food & Nutrient Database and the Korean Total Diet Study: a comparative study
Jee Yeon Lee, Sung Ok Kwon, Soo Hyun Lee, Min Jeong Seo, Gae Ho Lee, Cho-il Kim
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2023; 28(3): 235. CrossRef

2,773 View
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[Korean]
The Relationship Between the Korean Adults Diet Evaluated Using Dietary Quality Indices and Metabolic Risk Factors: Based on the 2016 ~ 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Chong-Yu Ding, Pil-Sook Park, Mi-Yeon Park; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(3):223-244. Published online June 30, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.3.223

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study was designed to investigate the relationship between metabolic risk factors, Index of Nutrition Quality, and the dietary quality index score of Korean adults.
Methods
The subjects were 18,652 Korean adults aged 19 years or older (7,899 males, 10,753 females) who participated in the 2016-2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Subjects were divided into normal, pre-metabolic syndrome, and metabolic syndrome (MetS) groups according to the number of their metabolic risk factors. Data were analyzed using the SPSS program.
Results
About 44.7% of men in the MetS group were at least college graduates (P < 0.001), whereas 52.0% of women in the MetS group were middle school graduates or lower (P < 0.001). The frequency of fruit and dairy products intake tended to decrease as the number of metabolic risk factors increased in both men and women (P for trend < 0.001). As the number of metabolic risk factors decreased, the frequency of grain intake tended to decrease in men (P for trend < 0.001) while the frequency of intake of red meat (P for trend = 0.001), poultry (P for trend < 0.001), and eggs (P for trend < 0.001) decreased in women. The total scores of Diet Quality Index-International (DQI-I) (men P < 0.001, women P < 0.01) and Korean Healthy Eating Index (KHEI) (men and women P < 0.001) were significantly lower in the MetS group compared to the other groups, and the total score of DQI-I and KHEI tended to decrease as the number of metabolic risk factors increased.
Conclusions
Dietary quality evaluation using various indices can provide more information on the dietary problems related to metabolic risk factors. Nutrients and foods that have been confirmed to be related to metabolic risk factors can be used to develop dietary guidelines for the nutritional management of metabolic diseases.

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Association between the Korean Healthy Eating Index sub-domains and the risk of metabolic syndrome in Korean adults: data from the 2022–2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Ha-Jeong An, Sang-Jin Chung
Nutrition Research and Practice.2026; 20(1): 114. CrossRef
Relationship between diet quality and risk factors for diabetes complications in Korean adults with type 2 diabetes: based on the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2019–2021)
Ye-In Son, Soo-Kyung Lee
Journal of Nutrition and Health.2025; 58(2): 179. CrossRef
Associations between Home Meal Replacement Consumption Frequency and Public Health Outcomes Among Adults in Their 20s and 30s in Daegu
Hye-Sun Jung, Kyung-Suck Park, Pil-Sook Park
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Associations between diet quality and regional factors in Korea vary according to individuals’ characteristics: a cross-sectional study
Hyunmi Han, Clara Yongjoo Park, Jeonghwa Lee
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2025; 30(4): 274. CrossRef
Cardiocerebrovascular Disease or Fatty Liver Incidence Associated with Pattern of Metabolic Risk Factors and Nutritional Status of Korean Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
Pil Sook Park, Mei Sheng Li, Chong Yu Ding, Mi Yeon Park
Journal of Health Informatics and Statistics.2023; 48(2): 165. CrossRef
Assessment of Nutrient Intake and Dietary Quality of Korean Adults in Metabolic Syndrome Patients According to Taking Medical Care: Based on the 2017 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Juhee Lee, Kyungsuk Choi
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2022; 27(4): 321. CrossRef

2,732 View
35 Download
6 Crossref

[Korean]
Consumption of Weight-control or Health Functional Foods, Dietary Habits, and Weight Perceptions According to the Body Mass Index of Adult Women in the Chungcheong Area: Gayoung Seong, Munkyong Pae; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(2):81-93. Published online April 30, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.2.81

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study was conducted to investigate the experience and perception among adult women regarding weight control and the consumption of weight-control foods or health functional foods based on their body mass index (BMI).
Methods
The subjects were 634 adult women from the Chungcheong province, Korea, and data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire from July 2021 through September 2021. The subjects were divided into four groups based on their BMI status: underweight (< 18.5 kg/㎡ , 7.6%), normal weight (18.5 ~ 22.9 kg/㎡ , 53.3%), overweight (23 ~ 24.9 kg/㎡ , 19.7%), and obese ( ≥ 25 kg/㎡ , 19.4%).
Results
Over the past 3 years, almost two-thirds (68.6%) of the adult women had tried weight control measures, despite the fact that a significant proportion of them were normal or underweight. More importantly, 57.6% of subjects reported the consumption of weightcontrol foods, with a lower proportion in the underweight (35.4%) group compared to the normal (56.2%), overweight (62.4%), and obese (65.0%) groups. The food items used for weight control were mostly salads, chicken breasts, low fat (soy) milk, slimming tea, protein shakes, low-calorie cereals, and energy/protein bars among others. In addition, one-third (31.1%) of the subjects reported the use of health functional foods containing ingredients for fat reduction. A significantly higher proportion of these was from the overweight (36.0%) and obese (38.2%) groups compared to the underweight (20.8%) and normal weight (28.1%) groups. Products containing Garcinia cambogia extract, green tea, or Cissus extract, were popular among users. Subjects who were obese had a poorer perception of their health and body. Most subjects felt the need for correct information regarding weight control, but this number was significantly more in the higher BMI groups.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that the use of weight-control foods or health functional foods is popular among adult women, especially those who are obese. Thus, nutrition education courses covering facts about weight control and practice need to be developed and provided based on the BMI status of subjects.

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Kyungbo Kim
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[Korean]
Evaluation of Nutritional Quality of Convenience Store Meal Boxes according to Store Company and Meal Price: Changgyu Cho, Youngmin Nam, Hye-Jong Yoo; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(2):105-120. Published online April 30, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.2.105

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study evaluated nutritional quality of convenience store meal boxes according to store company and meal price.
Methods
In May 2020, 71 meal boxes from five major convenience store companies were collected. Respective weights of all dishes and food ingredients included in each meal box were measured with a digital scale. Information on nutritional contents was collected from nutrition fact panels on packages. Food group patterns, dietary diversity scores (DDS), and dietary variety scores (DVS) were analyzed. Nutritional contents, i.e., amounts of energy, protein, and sodium, and percentages of energy from carbohydrate, sugar, fat, and saturated fat were compared with respective standards based on the 2020 Dietary Reference Intakes for Koreans. Comparison was made among five companies (Company A, B, C, D, E) and three price groups ( ≤4,200 won, ≥4,300 and ≤4,500 won, ≥4,600 won). Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the difference of nutritional contents according to company and price, respectively while holding the other variable constant.
Results
DDS, but not DVS, significantly differed among companies. The percentages of meal boxes meeting the nutritional standards of sodium significantly differed among companies; the percentage was highest in companies B (75.0%) and C (73.3%). “Company” was associated with amount of energy, protein, and sodium, and percentage of energy from saturated fat. “Price” was associated with the amount of energy and percentage of energy from carbohydrate. The average number of satisfied standards was highest in companies B (5.0) and C (4.0). About two-thirds of the meal boxes provided less amount of energy than the standard; the percentage of such meal boxes was highest in meal boxes with price of 4,200 won or lower.
Conclusions
There were significant differences in the nutritional quality of meal boxes according to “company”. Meanwhile, higher-priced meal boxes did not necessarily ensure better nutritional quality.

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[Korean]
Comparison of Sodium Reduction Practice and Estimated Sodium Intake by Salty Food Preference on Employees and Customers of Sodium Reduction Restaurant in Daegu, Korea: Su-Jin Lee, Keon-Yeop Kim, Yeon-Kyung Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2022;27(1):27-35. Published online February 28, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2022.27.1.27

Abstract PDF

Objectives
The purposes of this study were to compare the degree of sodium reduction practice and estimate sodium intake by salty food preference.
Methods
Sodium reduction practices, salty food preferences and estimated sodium intake were surveyed for restaurant owners (n = 80), employees (n = 82) and customers (n = 727) at the restaurants participating in the sodium reduction project in Daegu, Korea. Estimated sodium intake was performed by examining sex, age, body mass index (BMI), salty eating habit and dietary behaviors.
Results
The degree of sodium reduction practice was significantly higher in salinity meter use (P < 0.001), low salt seasonings (P < 0.001) and efforts to make the foods as bland as possible overall (P < 0.001) in the restaurants participating in sodium reduction project than in homes (P < 0.001). The degree of sodium reduction practice appeared lower in the high salty food preference group than in the low-preference group in such items as efforts to make the foods as bland as possible overall (P < 0.05) and washing the salty taste and then cooking (P < 0.05). The high-preference group showed high-salt dietary behavior, including eating all the soup until nothing was left (P < 0.05) more than the low-preference group, but low-salt dietary behavior included checking the sodium content in processed foods (P < 0 .0 5) less than the low-preference group. The high-preference group was higher in the soup and stew intake frequency than the low-preference group (P < 0.05) and much lower in nuts (P < 0.05) and fruits (P < 0.05) intake frequency. The high-preference group had a higher salty eating habit (P < 0.05), salty taste assessment (P < 0.05) and estimated sodium intake (P < 0.05) than the low-preference group.
Conclusions
The present study showed that the salty food preference was strongly associated with lower sodium reduction practice and higher estimated sodium intake.

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Jung-Eun Yim, Young-Seol Kim, Ryowon Choue
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Comparison of Serum Insulin, Leptin, Adiponectin and High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Levels according to Body Mass Index and their Associations in Adult Women
Mi Young Lee, Jung Hee Kim
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2011; 16(1): 126. CrossRef

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[Korean]
Regional Differences in Dietary Total Fat and Saturated Fatty Acid Intake and Their Associations with Metabolic Diseases among Korean Adults: Using the 2016~2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys: SuJin Song, Jae Eun Shim; Korean J Community Nutr 2021;26(6):495-507. Published online December 31, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2021.26.6.495

Abstract PDF

Objectives
This study examined regional differences in the intake of dietary total fat and saturated fatty acid (SFA) and their food sources among Korean adults. We also investigated the associations of SFA intake with metabolic diseases by region.
Methods
This study included 13,926 adults ( 19y) who participated in the 2016 ~ 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. The regions were divided into urban and rural areas according to the administrative districts where the participants lived. Using dietary data obtained from a 24-h recall, intake of total fat and SFA and their food sources were assessed by region. Metabolic diseases included obesity, abdominal obesity, and elevated total cholesterol and their association with SFA intake by region were examined using multiple logistic regression.
Results
Of the participants, 19.6% lived in rural areas. In urban areas, the total fat and SFA intakes were higher than in rural areas: 21.2% of energy (%E) came from total fat and 6.9%E from SFA in urban areas, whereas 18.0%E came from total fat and 5.8%E from SFA in rural areas. The percentage of participants who exceeded the dietary reference intakes for total fat and SFA in urban areas was 16.5% and 41.9%, respectively, but 43.4% of participants in rural areas showed lower intake levels for total fat compared to the reference level. Young adults did not show regional differences in fat intake, and the percentage of subjects who exceeded the reference for SFA was high both in urban (58.5%) and rural (55.7%) areas. Among middle-aged and older adults, intake of fatty acids except for n-3 fatty acid was significantly higher in urban areas than in rural areas. About 69% of older adults in rural areas showed a lower intake of total fat compared to the reference level. The food sources for total fat and SFA were meat, soybean oil, eggs, and milk in both areas. The intake of fat from eggs, milk, mayonnaise, and bread was higher in urban areas, but the intake of fat from white rice and coffee mix was higher in rural areas. The SFA intake was positively associated with elevated serum total cholesterol in urban areas (4th quartile vs. 1st quartile, OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.06-1.40, P for trend: 0.043), but not in rural areas.

Citations

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Associations of Dietary Intake With Cardiovascular Diseases, Blood Pressure, and Lipid Profile in the Korean Population: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Jeongseon Kim, Madhawa Gunathilake, Tung Hoang, Oh Yoen Kim
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Association between Diet Quality and Knee Osteoarthritis: Insights from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013
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Regional differences in protein intake and protein sources of Korean older adults and their association with metabolic syndrome using the 2016–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys: a cross-sectional study
You-Sin Lee, Yoonna Lee
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2024; 29(3): 173. CrossRef
Association between the Korean Healthy Diet Score and Metabolic Syndrome: Effectiveness and Optimal Cutoff of the Korean Healthy Diet Score
Soo-Hyun Kim, Hyojee Joung
Nutrients.2024; 16(19): 3395. CrossRef
Biochemical characteristics, nutrient intakes, and chronic disease risk according to the dietary fat energy ratio in middle-aged Korean: a cross-sectional study using data from the 7th (2016–2018) Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Ga-Hyeon Jeong, Sook-Bae Kim
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2024; 29(6): 528. CrossRef
Estimating and evaluating usual total fat and fatty acid intake in the Korean population using data from the 2019–2021 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys: a cross-sectional study
Gyeong-yoon Lee, Dong Woo Kim
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2023; 28(5): 414. CrossRef
Associations of Dietary Intakes of Total and Specific Types of Fat with Blood Lipid Levels in the Filipino Women’s Diet and Health Study (FiLWHEL)
Heejin Lee, Hyojin Kim, Sherlyn Mae P. Provido, Minji Kang, Grace H. Chung, Jae W. Lee, Sangmo Hong, Sung Hoon Yu, Chang Beom Lee, Jung Eun Lee
Global Heart.2023; 18(1): 29. CrossRef
Regional Differences in Metabolic Risk in the Elderly in Korea
Ji-Myung Kim, Yun-Jung Bae
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(18): 11675. CrossRef

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[Korean]
Influence of Internal and External Capacity on Adults' Food Waste Disposal Capacity: Ji Eun Kim, Kyoung Sook Choi; Korean J Community Nutr 2021;26(6):455-466. Published online December 31, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2021.26.6.455

Abstract PDF: Objectives
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of internal and external capacity on the practical capacity for food waste disposal in adults.
Methods
The study subjects were 410 adults who answered a structured questionnaire. The survey was conducted in January 2021. Data were analyzed through descriprive analysis, t-test, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis using the SPSS Win 24.0.
Results
First, in the analysis of internal capacity, attitude (3.95 out of 5 points) scored higher than knowledge (3.59 points). Attitudes showed significant differences according to gender (P < 0.001), age (P < 0.001), and income (P < 0.001). Knowledge showed significant differences according to gender (P < 0.01) and age (P < 0.05). Second, in the analysis of capacity, market constraints (3.73 points) scored the highest, followed by institutional conditions (3.48 points) and reference group (3.36 points). Market constraints differed according to gender (P < 0.001), and institutional conditions differed according to income (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference in the reference group according to the level of education (P < 0.05) and income (P < 0.05). Third, the practical capacity scores appeared in the order of separating discharge behavior, using behavior, purchasing behavior, and leadership behavior. Separating discharge behavior showed significant differences according to gender (P < 0.001), education level (P < 0.05), and income (P < 0.01). Using behavior showed a difference according to gender (P < 0.01), and purchasing behavior showed a significant difference according to income (P < 0.05). Leadership behavior showed no difference according to demographic factors. Fourth, internal capacity and external capacity showed a significant positive relationship with practical capacity. Factors affecting purchasing behavior were knowledge, attitude, institutional conditions, and reference group, and their explanatory power was 53%. Factors influencing using behavior were knowledge, attitude, institutional conditions, and reference group, and had an explanatory power of 37%. Leadership behavior was influenced by institutional conditions and the reference group, with an explanatory power of 31%.
Conclusions
Internal capacity, external capacity, and practical capacity show differences according to demographic factors. Factors influencing the practical capacity of adults were knowledge, attitude, institutional conditions, and reference group.

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