Determinaton of opinions of students of a foundation university on plant and animal based nutrition

This study was conducted on the students studying at Yeditepe University Faculty of Health Sciences, to determine the approach of new generations to plant-based diet and to examine its contribution to sustainable food. Data collection tools were used for information purposes about 310 students in the age range of 18 to 25 who accepted to participate in the research in Yeditepe University at the Faculty of Health Sciences. The socio-demographic characteristics of the participants were determined, nutritional habits, animal and plant-based product preferences were evaluated, it has been determined if the foods they consume harm the nature, and if they do, which foods will cause more harm to the nature, and assessment of change of eating pattern to protect the nature, was made. It was stated in the study that 97.7% of the participants had a mixed diet, 63% preferred to consume animal products for a healthy eating pattern. While 61% of the participants thought that the food they consumed did not harm the nature, 79,7% stated that animal-based products cause more harm to the nature. 66.5% of the participants stated that they could change their diet to protect nature. As a result of the study, it has been seen that the majority of the new generation may volunteer to change their diet to protect nature and leave a better world for future generations. New strategies should be developed to further increase and disseminate this number.