Soft drink consumption behavior among students: an analysis in the interior of São Paulo state.

Abstract

Soft drink consumption is mainly driven by situational influences related to social interaction, followed by consumption habits. Soft drinks are non-alcoholic beverages frequently consumed by higher education students in rural São Paulo. What is intriguing is that, despite being aware of all the health risks associated with soft drinks, consumption patterns have not changed significantly. Objective: To investigate soft drink consumption behavior among students at a higher education institution in rural São Paulo. Methodology: This is a quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive, and exploratory study conducted with 67 students at a higher education institution in rural São Paulo. The research was conducted using an online questionnaire with 29 questions about knowledge of soft drinks, consumption habits, and influences that lead to purchase, approved by the CEP in accordance with the CAAE: 85999825.6.0000.8547. Results: The research reveals that regional soft drinks have more strength in the local market than globalized brands, with 34.3% preference, and also demonstrates that the economic situation of students influences their consumption behavior, with those who earn 1 to 3 minimum wages consuming more frequently. Conclusion: The research suggests that despite knowledge about the harmful effects of soft drinks, consumption remains high, since the most important factor is taste. In addition, we noted the influence of regional soft drinks on consumption, such as the Conti Cola brand, which, despite the economic situation of consumers, is the preferred brand among those surveyed.