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A Comparison of Demographics and Purchasing Behaviors of Snack Vending Consumers at Different Locations in a Large University

Klapheke, Anne Michelle
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1337906704

Abstract Details

2012, Master of Science, Ohio State University, Human Ecology: Human Nutrition.
INTRODUCTION: To create a healthier eating environment, the Ohio State University decreased the proportion of unhealthy snacks in vending machines to 28.5 percent. Different groups (students, faculty, staff) access these machines; no data exists to compare these groups. The purpose of this research was to compare the demographic and purchasing behaviors of snack vending consumers at different locations across the Ohio State University campus. METHODS: The research design included a cross-sectional survey and focus groups. Survey participants included snack vending consumers (n=881) at 16 pre-selected vending machines from various campus locations. Trained data collectors observed vending patrons and conducted intercept surveys at each machine for 12 hours a day, on two consecutive days. Focus groups were conducted with student vending consumers (n=28) to gather in-depth data about factors that influence snack vending purchases. RESULTS: Survey results showed that vending consumers at the various locations differ significantly by age (p< .001), university affiliation (p< .001), frequency of purchases (p< .001), and reasons for purchase (p< .001). There were no differences in gender of consumers or type of snack item selected across locations; at least 60 percent of consumers at each location chose the least healthy options. Focus group data demonstrated that convenience and taste preferences strongly influence student vending purchases; point-of-purchase nutrition information could impact snack selection. DISCUSSION: Despite differences in demographics and purchasing behaviors, campus vending consumers from different locations show similar preferences for less healthy snack items. Increasing the convenience of healthy options and providing nutrition information may promote healthier choices.
Gail Kaye (Advisor)
Elizabeth Klein (Committee Member)
Joshua Bomser (Committee Member)
51 p.
Nutrition
snack vending

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Citations

  • Klapheke, A. M. (2012). A Comparison of Demographics and Purchasing Behaviors of Snack Vending Consumers at Different Locations in a Large University [Master's thesis, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1337906704

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Klapheke, Anne. A Comparison of Demographics and Purchasing Behaviors of Snack Vending Consumers at Different Locations in a Large University. 2012. Ohio State University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1337906704.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Klapheke, Anne. "A Comparison of Demographics and Purchasing Behaviors of Snack Vending Consumers at Different Locations in a Large University." Master's thesis, Ohio State University, 2012. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1337906704

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

osu1337906704
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© 2012, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by The Ohio State University and OhioLINK.