Investigation of the relationship between university students' organic food consumption and health perceptions

This study aimed to examine the relationship between university students' organic food consumption and their health perception. The cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 532 students studying at Bitlis Eren University. Data were collected using a questionnaire including socio-demographic questions, the Organic Food Consumption Scale, and the Health Perception Scale. Analyses were performed using chi-square test, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression. The mean age of the participants was 21.78±3.06 years; 55.8% were female and 44.2% were male. The mean score of the Health Perception Scale was 46.08±7.23, while the mean score of the Organic Food Consumption Scale was 61.10±10.67. The findings indicated that students' organic food consumption tendencies were at a moderate-high level. Female students had significantly higher self-identity and information-seeking scores compared to males (p<0.05). The highest scores in the perceived benefits of organic food were observed among students living in dormitories, while the lowest scores were found among those living with friends or alone (p<0.05). Students who engaged in regular physical activity had higher levels of organic food consumption (p<0.05). Moreover, health perception scores were positively correlated with the total and all subscale scores of organic food consumption (p<0.05). Regression analysis revealed that health perception positively and significantly predicted organic food consumption (β=0.319, p<0.001). In conclusion, students' health perception levels were slightly above the moderate level, while their attitudes toward organic food consumption were at a moderate-high level. Health perception and regular physical activity positively influenced organic food consumption, whereas alcohol use and the presence of illness had negative effects. Educational and awareness programs to enhance students' health perception and awareness of organic food are recommended.