Predictors of the consistency between healthy snack choice intentions and actual behaviour

Abstract

The present study investigated the factors that affect the intention–behaviour consistency of healthy snack choices. Intended snack choice was assessed by asking participants ( N = 538) to choose a snack on paper, out of 8 snacks (4 healthy, e.g. melon and gingerbread, and 4 unhealthy, e.g. crisps and chocolate). The next day participants chose one out of 8 different snacks for actual consumption. Participants completed a questionnaire about attitudes towards taste and health, habitual snack use, self-control, anticipated regret, and pleasantness of the snacks. Results showed that 24% of the participants with a healthy snack choice intention chose an unhealthy snack instead. Female gender, a high education level, a strong habitual healthy snack use, and a strong self-control increased the healthy intention–behaviour consistency. To facilitate healthy choices, interventions should target males and lower educated people, and focus on increasing their healthy snacking habit and self-control.