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Healthy habits on campus: A field study of nudge‐based interventions to promote healthier food choices

Rita Detrick et al.

Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being2026https://doi.org/10.1111/aphw.70117article
AJG 2
Weight
0.50

What the paper says

This study investigated how nudging strategies impact food selection behaviors among university students, focusing on promoting plant-based protein options (i.e., tofu) in a real-world cafeteria setting. Grounded in nudge theory, this two-phase research applied choice architecture to implement three distinct nudges-nutritional labeling (label effect), strategic placement of plant-based options (position effect), and awareness campaigns (exposure effect)-and assess their effectiveness in influencing dietary choices. Employing an iterative research design, phase 1 of this study used a survey to explore students' preferences and perceptions of plant-based proteins. The insights from the survey guided and informed the design of phase 2, a 7-week observational field intervention measuring food selections before, during, and after the application of nudges. Results indicated that combined nudges significantly increased the selection of plant-based options and reduced meat-based choices, with effects persisting post-intervention. This study offers evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, school administrators, and food service operators seeking to promote healthier eating behaviors in higher education environments.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/aphw.70117

Or copy a formatted citation

@article{rita2026,
  title        = {{Healthy habits on campus: A field study of nudge‐based interventions to promote healthier food choices}},
  author       = {Rita Detrick et al.},
  journal      = {Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/aphw.70117},
}

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Healthy habits on campus: A field study of nudge‐based interventions to promote healthier food choices

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.