The effect of increasing food inflation on the food choices and finances of UPLB College and High School students living in a dormitory

Date

6-2024

Adviser

Lea C. Garcia

Principal

Buela, Mabel S.

Abstract

The Philippines experienced a significant increase in inflation rates, from 0.7% in January 2016 to 8.7% in January 2023, with food prices particularly affected during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to examine the impact of rising food inflation on the dietary choices and financial well-being of college and high school students at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), particularly those living in dormitories. The researchers employed purposive snowball sampling and interviewed 20 willing participants using a semi-constructed qualitative interview. The participants were questioned about their experiences and adjustments regarding food inflation. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The results showed that food inflation negatively impacted the food choices and finances of the participants, as well as their physical well-being. The majority of the students consumed more unhealthy food than nutritious food-especially at their dormitories compared to their homes-due to factors such as price, time, convenience, availability, and taste preferences; hence, negatively affecting their physi cal health. All participants shared their observations of the price increase among food products and expressed their struggle to re-all ocate or adjust their budget to keep up with food inflation. They also shared their dormitory life experiences. which further backed up the results of the study.

Language

English

LC Subject

Capstone

Location

UP Rural High School

Document Type

Capstone

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