Breakfast Consumption Patterns and Dietary Diversity among Undergraduate Female College Students in Mumbai, Maharashtra

Abstract

Breakfast plays a crucial role in supporting overall physical and mental functioning. Regular breakfast consumption is associated with improved alertness, concentration, and healthier dietary patterns. Breakfast consumption patterns influence nutritional intake among young adults; however, evidence focusing on Indian female college students remains limited. This study assessed breakfast consumption patterns, dietary diversity at breakfast, and the association between breakfast frequency and dietary diversity among undergraduate female students in Mumbai, Maharashtra. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 females aged 18–22 years using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a Breakfast Survey Questionnaire and a Breakfast Food Frequency Questionnaire, with dietary diversity assessed according to Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance (FANTA) food group classification. Descriptive statistics and Spearman correlation analysis were performed using SPSS software, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. More than half of the participants reported regular breakfast consumption, with lack of time identified as the most common reason for skipping breakfast. Most participants consumed breakfast at home and preferred foods that were quick and easy to prepare. Although a high dietary diversity score at breakfast was observed among the majority of participants, breakfast frequency showed only a weak and non-significant association with dietary diversity. The findings emphasize the need for nutrition education interventions that promote consistent breakfast consumption along with balanced inclusion of diverse food groups among young women