Impact of online food delivery applications on eating habits of medical undergraduates in district Ludhiana: a cross-sectional study

Suhas Bakaya; Sarit Sharma; Anurag Chaudhary; Mahesh Satija; Pranjl Sharma; Nishant Sharma

doi:10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20264095

Authors

Suhas Bakaya Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Sarit Sharma Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Anurag Chaudhary Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Mahesh Satija Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Pranjl Sharma Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Nishant Sharma Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20264095

Keywords:

Dietary behaviour, Eating habits, Fast food, Medical undergraduates, Online food delivery applications

Abstract

Background: Online food delivery applications (OFDAs) have emerged as a popular food-ordering option among young adults, potentially affecting their dietary patterns. This study examined the impact of OFDA usage on eating habits among medical undergraduates in Ludhiana district.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 420 medical undergraduates between March and May 2026. Data were obtained through a pretested Google Form following informed consent. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics, Chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests and multivariable logistic regression. Statistical significance was defined as p<0.05.

Results: Among 420 participants, 407 (96.9%) reported using OFDAs, primarily for convenience (68.6%), cravings (62.1%) and dissatisfaction with hostel food (55.0%). Food was ordered once weekly by 38.6% and 2-3 times weekly by 36.6%, predominantly during evenings (73.5%). Meal skipping was reported by 64.8%, while 54.8% consumed fast food 2-3 times weekly. Increased unhealthy food consumption was perceived by 75.0%. Frequent OFDA usage was significantly associated with meal skipping (AOR=1.75; 95% CI: 1.10-2.79; p=0.018), delayed meals (AOR=2.03; 95% CI: 1.27-3.23; p=0.003), earlier meals (AOR=2.27; 95% CI: 1.06-4.87; p=0.036) and increased snacking (AOR=1.93; 95% CI: 1.05–3.57; p=0.036).

Conclusions: OFDA utilization was highly prevalent and associated with unfavourable eating behaviours among medical undergraduates. Targeted nutritional awareness initiatives and improved access to healthier food choices may encourage better dietary practices.

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