Literasi Pangan Remaja: Edukasi Gizi tentang Real Food, Ultra-Processed Food, dan Label Nilai Gizi di SMAN 1 Indralaya Utara

Abstract

The consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) among adolescents continues to rise, driven by technological advancements and social media exposure that promote tasty yet nutritionally poor food choices. Limited food literacy among adolescents particularly regarding food classification based on processing level and the ability to read nutrition information labels is a key risk factor contributing to unhealthy eating habits in this age group. This study aimed to determine the effect of interactive nutrition education on adolescents' knowledge of real food, ultra-processed food, and nutrition information labels at SMAN 1 North Indralaya. A pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was employed involving 28 Grade XI.. Educational activities were delivered through interactive lectures, an emo demo food-block sorting game, and visual media including posters, banners, food-shaped balloons, and PowerPoint slides. Knowledge was assessed using a 20-item multiple-choice questionnaire and analyzed with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results showed a significant increase in mean knowledge scores from 67.68 ± 17.87 (pre-test) to 98.21 ± 3.39 (post-test), with p = 0.000 (< 0.05). All respondents (100%) achieved a good knowledge category after the intervention, compared to only 32.1% prior to education. Interactive and participatory nutrition education proved effective in improving adolescents' food literacy and demonstrates strong potential as a key strategy for school-based nutrition programs.