The selection of foods for consumption results from a number of factors, such as sensory, physiological, psychological, social, environmental and economic factors. Besides physiological determinants or nutritional needs, what we choose to eat is also determined by other factors that influence food choice such as being concerned about health, knowledge, peer pressure, parental control, economic factor and stress. Some of these changes coincide with the dietary recommendations, such as, decrease in red meat consumption and increase in vegetable consumption, but others do not. This study was designed to determine how the influencing factors affected the food choices of male and female students.

Aim:  To study the influence of determinants of food selection.

Methodology: It was a survey based study of college students comprising of 100 females and 100 males. A questionnaire was used for sample collection.

Results: Females were more influenced by the media and had influence of parental control. Males preferred non–vegetarian foods. Both genders mostly skipped breakfast. Females were consuming for fatty foods. Food cost was an important determinant in food choice. Water consumption was more in males.

Conclusion: Males were more health conscious as compared to females. They engaged themselves in physical activity and were aware about the importance of nutrition. Therefore, it is recommended to bring up the awareness of nutrition in females.