Role of indigenous wisdom in food selection: study of students’ nutritional status in food nutrition programme: Widya Mandala Surabaya Catholic University

Purpose: The aim of this research is to obtain comprehensive information about students’ nutritional status and its relation to internal and external factors. Design/methodology/approach: This study used a purposive sampling method to study 94 students, aged around 20 years old, from the Food Nutrition programme of Widya Mandala Surabaya Catholic University. The nutritional status was determined by anthropometric methods, and the influenced factors were collected by questionnaire and recall diet. Findings:This study showed that more than 60% of respondents have healthy nutritional status criteria, based on the levels of nutrient consumption, fulfillment of energy, protein, vitamin A and Fe (iron). The levels of fulfillment were 72%, 98 %, 388% and 92% respectively. The data showed that most nutritional fulfillment was supported by the eating habits of the respondents who enjoy light meals (70.9%). The food selection of respondents was based on preference of local food and light meals (100% of the respondents) and was not as dependent on nutritional knowledge. Originality/value: Students need adequate nutrients that can improve and maintain their physical endurance and mental and cognitive functioning. Therefore, it is important to study their nutritional status.