1Department of English, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Guntur-522 302, Andhra Pradesh, India
2Department of English, Velagapudi Ramakrishna Siddhartha School of EngineeringSiddhartha Academy of Higher Education Deemedto-be-University, Vijayawada-520 001, Andhra Pradesh, India
3Department of English, Vardhaman College of Engineering, Hyderabad-501 218, Telangana, India
4Department of English, Anurag University, Venkatapur, Ghatkesar, Medchal-501 301, Telangana, India
5Department of English, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Guntur-522 302, Andhra Pradesh, India
*Corresponding Author: Madhu Munagala, Department of English, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Guntur-522 302, Andhra Pradesh, India, Email: madhu.css@kluniversity.in
Online published on 13 November, 2025.
This study investigates potato chip consumption patterns among young female adults (ages 17-22) in South India, examining factors influencing their choices and the associated impacts on health and social behavior.
A quantitative survey was conducted across 24 educational institutions in four South Indian states, with 1,127 participants. The research explored six dimensions: immediate pleasure, energy boost, social bonding, nutritional deficiency, mental health impact and unhealthy eating patterns. Statistical analyses assessed perceptions across age groups, living environments and states.
Findings revealed a complex relationship between participants and potato chip consumption. While aware of nutritional deficiencies (mean score 3.42) and potential health risks, participants valued chips for immediate pleasure (3.03) and social bonding (3.14). Perceptions were generally consistent across age groups, except for perceived energy boost (p=0.018). Significant differences were observed across states in immediate pleasure (p=0.019), energy boost (p=0.002) and nutritional deficiency awareness (p<0.001), indicating regional influences on consumption patterns. The study highlights the need for targeted, culturally sensitive interventions to promote healthier snacking habits among young female adults in South India, balancing the social appeal of potato chips with long-term health considerations.
Adolescent eating habits, Nutritional awareness, Potato chip consumption, Social bonding
