Food consumption behaviours of youths in Thailand: a retrospective study using the health behaviour of population survey

Purpose The primary objective of this study is to examine the food consumption behaviours of youths in Thailand. Design/methodology/approach A retrospective analysis was conducted utilising data extracted from the Health Behaviour of the Population Survey 2021, encompassing a nationally representative cohort of 18,855 participants distributed across five regional divisions. All data were collected through administration of the Healthy Eating and Health Behaviour Questionnaire, a validated instrument incorporating a 22-item food frequency module. All variables were analysed using a four-stage multiple regression approach, conducted using the MAJOR package (version 1.1.0) in the Jamovi statistical environment. Analytical precision was ensured through systematic model validation and diagnostics, enhancing the reliability of the inferential outcomes. Findings The multiple regression analysis found that the predictor was statistically significant in relation to food consumption behaviours among youths (standard error (SE) = 4.875, ß = 0.183, df = 18,674, t = 120.325, p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval [576.991, 596.101]). The post hoc model significantly predicted the outcome variables (df = 179, F = 22.243, η² = 0.175, η²p = 0.176, ω² = 0.168, ω²p = 0.168, e2 = 0.168 = e2p), indicating significant effects. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first retrospective study on food consumption patterns, and it offers unique insight into the eating behaviours of youths across different demographic groups in Thailand.