Introduction

The rising cost of food is a significant and pressing concern for students, particularly

within school environments where canteens serve as essential sources of nutrition. As food

prices continue to escalate due to various economic factors such as inflation, supply chain

disruptions, and increased demand for certain products, understanding how these changes

impact students' food choices and spending habits has become increasingly important. This

study explores the correlation between food prices and the purchasing behavior of Grade 12

ABM students at Daraga National High School during a period marked by these rising costs.

By examining this relationship, we aim to shed light on the broader implications for student

health, well-being, and academic performance.

In recent years, social media discussions have highlighted that many students are

struggling with the affordability of meals in their school canteen. This situation raises critical

questions about how economic pressures influence dietary choices among adolescents, who

are at a crucial stage of development where proper nutrition is vital. The Daraga National

High School canteen plays a significant role in providing students with daily meals; thus,

understanding the factors that affect their purchasing decisions is essential for ensuring that

they have access to healthy and affordable food options.

Statement of the Problem

This research aims to investigate the impact of rising food prices on student purchasing

behavior within the Daraga National High School canteen. The following key questions will

guide this investigation:

How do students react when prices change in the canteen?

healthy?

What factors influence their choices?

Is cost the primary reason for their decisions, or do other factors such as health benefits

and flavor also play significant roles?

What specific changes do students make in their food choices when faced with increased

prices?

Are there particular food items or categories that see a notable decline in purchases?

How do these price changes impact the overall spending habits of students within the

canteen?

Do students reduce their total expenditure, and how does this affect their overall

consumption patterns?

Statement of the Hypotheses

Based on the problems, the study proposes the following hypotheses:

H1: Rising food prices lead to a decrease in the quantity of food purchased by Grade 12

ABM students at Daraga National High School canteen.

This hypothesis suggests that as prices increase, students may buy fewer items or smaller

portions.

H2: Students are more likely to choose cheaper alternatives when faced with higher prices,

even if those options are less healthy.

choices.

H3: Cost is the primary factor influencing students' food choices, although health benefits

and flavor also significantly impact their decisions.

This hypothesis suggests that while price is a critical consideration, other factors cannot be

overlooked.

H4: Increased food prices negatively impact the overall spending habits of students within

the Daraga National High School canteen.

Significance of the Study

Grade 12 ABM Students

The research will provide Grade 12 ABM students at Daraga National High School (DNHS)

with valuable insights into economic principles and their impact on daily life, particularly

regarding food choices and costs. This knowledge may inspire students to explore careers in

areas such as economics, food security, or public health, equipping them with skills to make a

positive difference in their communities. Furthermore, the study offers students an

opportunity to actively participate in research, allowing them to gain practical experience in

research methods and sparking their interest in data analysis.

Community

The findings of this study will help the community understand how rising food prices affect

students at Daraga National High School and their ability to access nutritious food. This
information can be utilized to develop targeted programs aimed at assisting students who are

struggling with food insecurity, thereby supporting their health and academic performance.

Additionally, the results can guide the Daraga National High School canteen team in setting

prices, planning menus, and running promotions that align with student preferences while

maintaining financial stability. This will enhance the canteen's operation and ensure that

students have access to healthy and affordable meals.

Environment

The study can contribute to improving the sustainability of food practices within the Daraga

National High School canteen. By analyzing student preferences and identifying areas for

improvement, the research can help reduce food waste, promote the use of local ingredients,

and support eco-friendly food options. These efforts will not only benefit the environment

but also foster a culture of sustainability among students.

Teachers

Teachers can leverage the insights gained from this research to better understand the factors

influencing students' food choices. With this knowledge, educators can guide students toward

making healthier decisions and incorporate discussions about nutrition into their curriculum.

Additionally, teachers can use the findings to advocate for improved food programs and

policies within schools.

Future Researchers

The methodologies and findings from this study can serve as a valuable resource for future

researchers examining similar topics in other schools or markets. By providing insights into

how food prices affect purchasing behavior, this research will contribute to a broader
understanding of economic factors influencing consumer choices among adolescents. Future

studies can build upon these findings to explore additional dimensions of food purchasing

behavior in various contexts.

By addressing these key areas, this study aims to create a meaningful impact not only on the

Grade 12 ABM students at Daraga National High School but also on the wider community,

educational institutions, and future research endeavors related to food pricing and purchasing

behavior.

Scope and Limitations

This study investigates the correlation between rising food prices and Grade 12 ABM

students purchasing behavior within the Daraga National High School (DNHS) canteen,

focusing on how price fluctuations affect students' consumption patterns during a specified

period characterized by increased food costs. The research primarily examines changes in

students' purchasing choices, including the frequency of purchases, types of food items

selected, and average expenditure per transaction. By concentrating on these aspects, the

study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how economic factors influence

student behavior in a school environment.

Scope of the Study

The scope of this research is defined by several key parameters:

Target Population: The study focuses exclusively on Grade 12 ABM students who regularly

patronize the Daraga National High School canteen. Data collection involved analyzing sales

records from the canteen and conducting surveys targeting these students to gather insights

into their purchasing behaviors.

likely influenced by broader economic factors such as inflation. This timeframe allows for an

in-depth analysis of purchasing behavior in response to immediate economic changes.

Data Sources: The analysis is limited to data derived from Daraga National High Scool

canteen sales records and student surveys. This approach ensures that the findings are

directly relevant to the canteen environment and reflective of student experiences.

Limitation of the Study

While this research aims to provide valuable insights into the relationship between food

prices and purchasing behavior, several limitations must be acknowledged:

Exclusion of Off-Campus Vendors: The study does not explore purchasing behaviors

related to off-campus food sources or vendors. As a result, it may not capture the full

spectrum of students' food choices or their overall consumption patterns outside the canteen.

Focus on Price Changes Only: The investigation concentrates solely on the effect of food

price changes on purchasing behavior without examining other potential influences, such as

students’ personal financial situations or parental allowances. This narrow focus may

overlook important factors that could impact students’ decisions.

External Influences Not Considered: Other external factors, such as marketing strategies,

peer influences, or seasonal variations in food availability, were not considered in this study.

By concentrating solely on the direct relationship between price changes and student

behavior, the research may miss additional contextual elements that could affect purchasing

decisions.
Data Collection Limitations: Data collection was limited to a specific timeframe and may

not account for variations in purchasing behavior over longer periods or during different

economic conditions. Additionally, reliance on self-reported survey data may introduce

biases or inaccuracies regarding students' actual purchasing habits.

Generalizability of Findings: The findings from this study may be specific to the DNHS

canteen and may not be generalizable to other school environments or populations.

Differences in local economic conditions, cultural factors, and school policies could result in

varying purchasing behaviors elsewhere.

Definition of Terms

Food Prices: The monetary cost associated with purchasing various food items available in

the DNHS canteen, which may fluctuate based on market conditions.

Purchasing Behavior: The patterns and decisions made by students regarding what and how

much food they buy from the canteen, reflecting their preferences and constraints.

Economic Inflation: The general increase in prices across goods and services over time,

which affects consumer purchasing power and behavior.

Food Insecurity: A condition characterized by limited or uncertain access to adequate food

due to financial constraints, which can significantly impact student health and academic

performance.

Review of Ralated Literature (RRL)

Introduction
 The interplay between food prices and grade 12 ABM student behavior has become a

focal point of research, particularly concerning its effects on dietary habits, health, and

academic performance. Students, especially those in higher education, frequently navigate

financial constraints that significantly influence their food choices and consumption patterns.

This review synthesizes existing literature to examine how food prices affect student

behavior, emphasizing three primary areas: dietary choices, health outcomes, and academic

success. Additionally, it identifies gaps in the literature and suggests directions for future

research.

Facts and Findings

A substantial body of research indicates a direct relationship between food prices and

students' dietary decisions. Kearney (2022) found that increasing food prices lead students to

choose cheaper, less nutritious options, resulting in a decline in overall diet quality. Similarly,

Smith, Cooper, and Wong (2023) reported that the rising costs of healthy foods—such as

fruits and vegetables—result in decreased consumption among students, who often turn to

processed and calorie-dense alternatives. These findings underscore the significant impact of

economic constraints on students' ability to maintain a balanced diet.

Moreover, studies conducted at Princess Nora University revealed that approximately 80% of

students reported that food prices directly affect their choices. This highlights the prevalence

of economic factors in determining dietary habits among students.

Uses and Benefits

Understanding the correlation between food prices and purchasing behavior can help

policymakers design effective food tax and subsidy policies aimed at improving public health
by promoting healthier eating habits among students. Price reduction strategies for healthy

foods can encourage students to make better dietary choices while still accommodating their

financial limitations. For instance, initiatives like "Budgie Meals," which offer price-reduced

meals, have been shown to positively influence purchasing behaviors among young adults

(PMC8596072).

Risks and Disadvantages

While increasing the prices of unhealthy foods may drive students toward healthier options,

it could also lead to unintended consequences such as increased food waste or substitution

with other unhealthy but cheaper options. Additionally, socioeconomic factors may influence

how different student demographics respond to price changes, potentially widening health

disparities if not addressed. The study from Princess Nora University indicated that while

students are aware of the health risks associated with fast food consumption, many choose to

ignore them due to financial constraints or lack of motivation.

Health Outcomes

The implications of food pricing extend beyond dietary choices to encompass student health.

Johnson (2021) documented that frequent consumption of low-cost, unhealthy foods is

associated with higher obesity rates and related health problems among college students.

Furthermore, Garcia and Chen (2020) highlighted that poor dietary choices stemming from

financial limitations can worsen mental health issues like stress and anxiety. These adverse

effects are particularly pronounced during high-stress periods, such as exams.

exposure to unhealthy eating patterns due to financial constraints affects long-term health

outcomes among students.

Academic Success

Nutrition plays a vital role in academic performance, influenced significantly by food prices.

Lee, Park, and Kim (2022) conducted a systematic review demonstrating that inadequate

nutrition—often a result of budget constraints—negatively impacts cognitive function,

concentration, and academic achievement. In contrast, Martin (2019) argued that access to

affordable healthy food options can enhance academic success. Students who consume

nutritious meals tend to be more focused, productive, and better equipped to tackle academic

challenges.

Additionally, research indicates that food insecurity correlates with lower academic

performance among college students (Lee et al., 2022). This correlation highlights the need

for universities to address food access issues as part of their broader educational support

services.

Conclusion

The literature consistently illustrates that food prices have a profound impact on students'

dietary habits, health outcomes, and academic performance. To address these challenges

effectively, increasing access to affordable and nutritious food options on college campuses is

essential for promoting healthier eating habits, enhancing student well-being, and supporting

academic success. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to assess the long-

term effects of dietary choices influenced by pricing on health outcomes and academic
performance. Additionally, exploring interventions aimed at improving food accessibility

could provide actionable insights for policymakers.

References

Garcia, L., & Chen, T. (2020). The impact of dietary choices on student mental health.

Journal of College Health, 68(4), 305-312.

Johnson, K. R. (2021). The relationship between college students' dietary habits and obesity.

Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, 53(6), 559-567.

Kearney, J. (2022). How food prices affect student eating patterns. International Journal of

Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 19(1), 12-23.

Lee, R., Park, S., & Kim, J. (2022). Food insecurity and academic performance in college

students: A systematic review. Nutrients, 14(4), 785-802.

Martin, P. (2019). The effects of nutrition on academic performance in higher education.

Journal of Educational Psychology, 112(5), 763-779.

Smith, A., Cooper, M., & Wong, J. (2023). The effects of food price increases on college

students’ dietary behavior. Journal of American College Health, 73(2), 120-134. This revised

RRL now includes sections on facts and findings; uses; benefits; risks; disadvantages;

making it more comprehensive while addressing the critical aspects related to your research

topic on food prices and student purchasing behavior.

Synthesis of the Art

The increased food prices have posed a major concern especially among students because it

influences their purchasing decisions. The correlation between prices of food items and the
student purchase behavior is quite visible at the DNHS canteen where affordability is key.

With the rising food prices, students have to make very tough choices which most of the time

do not have nutritious meals.

Citations:

According to Kearney (2022), higher food prices drive students to opt for more affordable

but less nutritious alternatives, ultimately diminishing their diet quality

Synthesis:

This challenge proved that rising food prices have a direct impact on students' purchasing

behavior at the DNHS canteen, forcing them to make difficult choices based on affordability.

Many students are often compelled to opt for cheaper, less nutritious alternatives, as financial

constraints limit their access to healthier meal options. As a result, diet quality suffers, and

students struggle to balance cost with nutritional needs. This situation highlights the urgent

need for affordable, nutritious food options that enable students to make healthier choices,

even in the face of economic pressures.

Theoretical Framework

Objective

The objective of this study is to explore how rising food prices impact the purchasing

behavior of Grade 12 ABM students at Daraga National High School, with a focus on

understanding the choices students make in the school canteen.

Problem Statement
As food prices continue to rise, students often face financial constraints that may influence

their dietary choices. This study seeks to examine the correlation between food prices and the

purchasing behavior of students, aiming to identify trends in their food selections and the

potential health implications of these choices.

Key Concepts

Food Prices: The cost of food items available in the school canteen, which can fluctuate due

to various economic factors.

Purchasing Behavior: The decisions made by students regarding which food items to buy,

influenced by price, preferences, and availability.

Dietary Choices: The types of foods selected by students, which can range from healthy

options (fruits, vegetables) to less healthy alternatives (snacks, fast food).

Relevant Theories

Price Elasticity of Demand:

This economic theory posits that consumers' demand for a product is sensitive to changes in

its price. In this context, it suggests that as food prices rise, students may reduce their

purchases of healthier items and opt for cheaper, less nutritious alternatives.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs:

According to this psychological theory, basic physiological needs (such as hunger) must be

met before individuals can focus on higher-level needs. For students facing rising food costs,

the priority may shift towards affordability rather than nutritional quality.

Health Belief Model (HBM):

related behaviors. It can be applied to understand how students perceive the health

implications of their food choices in relation to price.

Social Cognitive Theory:

This theory emphasizes the role of social influences on behavior. In a school setting, peer

behaviors can significantly impact individual purchasing decisions, especially when it comes

to choosing between healthy and unhealthy food options.

Relationships Between Concepts

The framework posits that rising food prices negatively correlate with the purchasing of

healthier food options among students. As prices increase, students may prioritize

affordability over nutrition, leading to poorer dietary choices.

Additionally, social influences and peer behaviors may further exacerbate this trend, as

students are likely to mimic their peers’ purchasing behaviors in response to price changes.

Hypotheses

As food prices increase in the school canteen, there will be a significant decrease in the

purchase of healthier food options among Grade 12 ABM students.

Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds will demonstrate greater sensitivity to price

changes compared to their peers from higher socioeconomic backgrounds.

Peer influence will significantly affect the purchasing decisions of students, particularly

regarding the choice between healthy and unhealthy food items.

Conclusion
This theoretical framework provides a comprehensive foundation for investigating the

correlation between food prices and purchasing behavior among Grade 12 ABM students at

Daraga National High School. By integrating theories from economics and health

psychology, this framework will guide empirical analysis and contribute valuable insights

into how rising food costs affect dietary choices in educational settings.

Conceptual Framework

Introduction

The conceptual framework for the study titled "The Correlation Between Food Prices and the

Purchasing Behavior of Grade 12 ABM Students at Daraga National High School Canteen:

During a Period of Rising Food Costs" aims to illustrate the expected relationships between

food prices and students' purchasing behaviors. This framework will guide the research by

identifying key variables, their interconnections, and the underlying assumptions that inform

the study.

Key Concepts and Variables

Food Prices:

Definition: The monetary cost of food items available in the school canteen.

Role: Independent variable that influences purchasing behavior.

Purchasing Behavior:

Definition: The choices made by students regarding which food items to buy in the

canteen.
 Role: Dependent variable affected by changes in food prices.

Dietary Choices:

Definition: The types of foods selected by students, which may include healthy and

unhealthy options.

Role: A sub-variable that reflects the quality of food purchased based on price

sensitivity.

Socioeconomic Status:

Definition: The economic and social position of students, which may influence their

purchasing power and choices.

Role: A moderating variable that affects how price changes impact purchasing behavior.

Peer Influence:

Definition: The impact of friends and classmates on individual purchasing decisions.

Role: A mediating variable that may affect students' choices based on social dynamics.

Proposed Relationships

As food prices increase, it is expected that students will demonstrate a decrease in the

purchase of healthier food options, opting instead for cheaper, less nutritious alternatives.

Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are likely to exhibit greater sensitivity to

price changes, leading to more significant shifts in purchasing behavior compared to their

higher-income peers.
Peer influence is anticipated to play a significant role in shaping purchasing decisions,

particularly regarding the choice between healthy and unhealthy food items.

Visual Representation

Conclusion

This conceptual framework provides a structured approach to understanding how rising food

costs correlate with the purchasing behavior of Grade 12 ABM students at Daraga National

High School. By identifying key variables and their relationships, this framework will guide

data collection and analysis, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of how

economic factors influence dietary choices among adolescents.

Review Related Studies (RRS)

1.Adolescents' Food Purchasing Patterns in The School Food Environment

Summary: This study examines the food purchasing patterns of adolescents in and around
schools, focusing on the influence of perceived maternal support and monitoring. It

highlights how demographic factors and the school food environment affect adolescents'

dietary choices and purchasing behaviors.

2. Purchasing Behavior, Setting, Pricing, Family: Determinants of School Lunch

Participation

Summary: This research investigates factors influencing school lunch participation, including

pricing and family influences. It finds that pricing significantly affects students' decisions to

participate in school lunch programs, with implications for improving school meal offerings.

3. Lunchtime Food and Drink Purchasing: Young People's Practices

Summary: This qualitative study explores factors influencing food purchasing among young

people aged 13-15 years. It discusses how the quality, taste, availability, and price of food

impact students' purchasing decisions both within school cafeterias and external food

environments.

4. Purchases of Food in Youth: Influence of Price and Income

Summary: This study examines how price and income levels affect food purchasing

decisions among youth. It demonstrates that lower-income individuals are more sensitive to

price changes, which influences their purchasing of healthy versus unhealthy foods.

5. Food Environment and Adolescent Health Outcomes

Summary: This article discusses the relationship between food environments (including
pricing) and health outcomes among adolescents. It emphasizes the importance of creating

supportive food environments in schools to promote healthier eating habits.

References

1. Hermans RCJ, Smit K, van den Broek N, Evenhuis IJ, Veldhuis L. Adolescents' Food

Purchasing Patterns in The School Food Environment: Examining the Role of Perceived

Relationship Support and Maternal Monitoring. Nutrients. 2020 Mar 11;12(3):733. doi:

10.3390/nu12030733. PMID: 32168757; PMCID: PMC7146524.

2. Sobek, C., Ober, P., Abel, S., Spielau, U., Kiess, W., Meigen, C., Poulain, T., Igel, U.,

Vogel, M., & Lipek, T. (2021). Purchasing Behavior, Setting, Pricing, Family: Determinants

of School Lunch Participation. Nutrients, 13(12), 4209. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13124209

3. Wills, W. J., Danesi, G., & Kapetanaki, A. B. (2015). Lunchtime food and drink

purchasing: young people’s practices, preferences and power within and beyond the school

gate. Cambridge Journal of Education, 46(2), 195–210.

https://doi.org/10.1080/0305764X.2015.1110114

4. Epstein, Leonard & Handley, Elizabeth & Dearing, Kelly & Cho, David & Roemmich,

James & Paluch, Rocco & Raja, Samina & Pak, Youngju & Spring, Bonnie. (2006).

Purchases of Food in Youth. Influence of Price and Income. Psychological science. 17. 82-9.

10.1111/j.1467-9280.2005.01668.x.

5. Piccoli GB, Trabace T, Chatrenet A, Carranza de La Torre CA, Gendrot L, Nielsen L, Fois
A, Santagati G, Saulnier P, Panocchia N. New Intravenous Calcimimetic Agents: New

Options, New Problems. An Example on How Clinical, Economical and Ethical

Considerations Affect Choice of Treatment. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Feb

14;17(4):1238. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17041238. PMID: 32075103; PMCID: PMC7068561.

Definition of Terms

1. Food Prices:

The monetary cost of food items available for purchase at the school canteen. Food prices

fluctuate due to economic factors, which can influence students' purchasing decisions and

dietary choices.

2. Purchasing Behavior:

The decisions and actions taken by Grade 12 ABM students regarding which food items to

buy at the canteen. This behavior is influenced by multiple factors, including price,

preference, and availability.

3. Dietary Choices:

The types of food selected by students, which can range from healthy options (e.g., fruits,

vegetables) to unhealthy alternatives (e.g., fast food, snacks). These choices reflect the

quality of food purchased, influenced by factors such as food prices and social pressures.
4. Socioeconomic Status:

The social and economic position of students based on factors like family income, education

level, and occupation. This variable moderates the effect of food price changes on students'

purchasing behavior, as students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may be more price-

sensitive.

5. Peer Influence:

The impact that friends, classmates, and social circles have on individual students'

purchasing decisions. Peer influence may lead students to choose certain food items based on

social pressures or group behaviors, particularly in relation to healthier or unhealthy food

options.

6. Health Outcomes:

The physical and mental health implications of students' dietary choices, which can be

affected by the affordability and nutritional quality of the food they purchase. Poor dietary

habits may lead to issues like obesity, stress, anxiety, and other health-related problems.

7. Price Sensitivity:

The degree to which students' purchasing decisions are influenced by changes in food prices.

High price sensitivity indicates that students are more likely to alter their buying behavior in

response to price increases.

Food items that are typically high in calories, fats, sugars, and low in essential nutrients.

These foods, such as fast food, chips, or sugary snacks, are often chosen due to their lower

cost or convenience despite their negative health impact.

9. Healthy Food Options:

Food items that are nutrient-rich and beneficial to overall health, such as fruits, vegetables,

whole grains, and lean proteins. Healthy food options are typically more expensive, which

can limit students' ability to choose them when faced with financial constraints.

10. Longitudinal Study:

A research study that involves repeated observations of the same variables over a period of

time. Longitudinal studies can provide insights into the long-term effects of dietary choices

on health and academic performance.

11. Economic Constraints:

The financial limitations or budgetary restrictions that students face, which influence their

ability to afford healthy food options and impact their overall purchasing behavior in the

canteen.
12. Academic Success:

The level of achievement students reach in their academic endeavors, which can be affected

by factors such as nutrition, mental health, and cognitive function. Poor dietary habits can

negatively impact concentration, focus, and academic performance.