Exploring the determinants of fruits and vegetables consumption among adults in Saudi Arabia: integrating habit strength in theory of planned behavior

Abstract

Introduction: Fruit and vegetable consumption is low among adults in Saudi Arabia.

Aim: To identify the main determinants of fruit and vegetable consumption among Saudi adults and to suggest possible intervention strategies to promote healthier eating habits.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of Saudi adult students (n = 471), using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a conceptual framework. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the TPB predictors for consuming the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables per day in the upcoming week, and multi-group analysis was conducted to assess the moderating effect of habits.

Results: The findings indicate that both the average daily servings and the frequency of meeting the recommended five servings per day are notably low. Higher fruit and vegetable consumption habits are associated with better knowledge, healthier dietary practices, and more consistent physical activity. Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC) emerged as a significant predictor of fruit and vegetable consumption behavior among individuals with low consumption habits.

Conclusion: Fruit and vegetable consumption is influenced by both intention and PBC, with individual habits being an important consideration. To increase fruits and vegetables intake, interventions should be tailored based on the individual's level of habit.

Keywords: Saudi Arabia; fruits and vegetables consumption; habits; intention; moderator; structural equation modeling; theory of planned behavior.

Figure 1

Schematic representation of the main findings. *Significant prediction for low habit group, **significant prediction for high habit group, ***significant for the three groups (low, moderate and high habit groups). (+): positive correlation, (−): negative correlation, PCB, Perceived behavioral control.