The Impact of Socio-Economic Factors on Youth Fast Food Consumption: A Study of Pakistan

Abstract

This study looks at how socioeconomic factors affect Pakistani teenagers' use of fast food. Fast food is now more widely available in Pakistan because of the country's rising urbanization and globalization, especially among younger people. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design to collect data from 110, teenagers belonging to various socioeconomic classes. The results show a strong relationship between fast-food consumption patterns and socioeconomic status. Fast food consumption was linked to higher family income and parental education levels more frequently, most likely as a result of increased affordability and exposure to international culinary trends. Teenagers from lower-income families, on the other hand, showed comparatively decreased spending, mostly as a result of financial limitations. Consumption rates were further increased by living in an urban area and being close to fast-food establishments. The study emphasizes the necessity of focused public health initiatives to address the nutritional effects of Pakistani youth's increased fast-food intake, especially among wealthy urban populations. When creating awareness campaigns and encouraging healthier eating habits, policymakers and health educators should take socioeconomic differences into account.