Effects of Social Media on Eating Behavior of Students in Pune

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of social media on the eating behavior of college students in Pune, a leading educational hub in India. Relying exclusively on secondary data sources such as national health surveys, academic research, journal articles, and institutional reports, the paper identifies how various social media platforms—primarily Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok—shape dietary choices among the youth. The research reveals a growing correlation between high social media usage and a spectrum of unhealthy eating behaviors, including frequent fast-food consumption, emotional eating during periods of stress, and peer- or influencer-driven dietary trends. Through an examination of recent studies and location-specific data, the paper finds that social media not only alters students’ perceptions of food aesthetics and nutrition but also reinforces behavior through algorithms, viral content, and aspirational lifestyle messaging. Key patterns emerging in Pune-based institutions include increased late-night food ordering, experimentation with fad diets, and a growing disconnection from traditional meal routines. The study also analyzes the role of demographic variables such as gender and residential status (hostel vs. home living), showing that these factors moderate the impact of social media on food behavior. The paper further discusses the underlying psychological mechanisms—such as social comparison, emotional triggers, and behavioral modeling—that mediate this relationship. Implications are explored for educational institutions, policy makers, and health marketers. The research concludes by suggesting targeted institutional interventions, digital literacy programs, and socially-driven health promotion strategies as pathways to mitigate adverse outcomes and promote mindful eating habits among students. This study thus contributes to a growing body of literature on digital influence and health behavior in urban Indian youth