중국 유학생의 건강관심도에 따른 편의식 선택동기에 대한 연구

Abstract

This study analyzed the health consciousness of Chinese students in South Korea. We further identified the purchase motives, selection attributes, and consumption patterns of convenience foods based on the levels of health consciousness. An online survey was conducted with 296 Chinese students. Based on the average health consciousness score, the students were classified into the low health-conscious group (Low group) and the high health-conscious group (High group). Compared to the High group, the Low group comprised more men (p=0.002) who were younger (p＜0.001) and less proficient in the Korean language (p＜0.001). Using factor analysis, three factors were identified for convenience food purchase motive (taste, quality, and convenience), and five factors were identified for convenience food selection attributes (quality, trend, economical, convenience, and information). The Low group scored higher in taste (p=0.031) and lower in quality (p=0.037) when considering convenience food purchase motives. Regarding the selection attributes, the Low group scored lower in quality (p＜0.001) and higher in trend (p＜0.001) as compared to the High group. The frequency of consumption of convenience food in the Low group was determined to be higher (p＜0.001). These results indicate that Chinese students who are less interested in health are more likely to consume a higher amount of convenience food, and they consider taste or trend more important than quality when purchasing convenience food. Therefore, education programs on healthy eating habits are required for Chinese students to help them select healthier convenience food options. The development of food labels to support healthy food choices for foreign students with low Korean language skills should also be considered. This study also indicates the necessity to develop differentiated convenience foods for Chinese students.