"I bought it, but I still don't know what it is": international students dealing with a new food culture in Norway - A qualitative study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Over six million students study abroad each year, and many experience culture shock. Engaging with a new food culture often changes eating habits, and dietary acculturation can be challenging for young people. However, little is known about this process among international students in the Nordic context and how it affects their health and well-being. This study aimed to explore the main challenges international students face concerning food choices and eating habits after encountering Norwegian food culture.

METHODS: Ten international students at a university in Southern Norway were interviewed using semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Data were analysed using inductive codebook thematic analysis within an applied orientation.

RESULTS: Five main themes were identified: food cost, missing the taste from home, food literacy, language barriers, and the social aspects of eating. Food cost was identified as the most significant challenge, possibly influencing food choices and eating habits, particularly among non-European students.

CONCLUSIONS: International students in Norway face several food-related challenges similar to those reported elsewhere, which may negatively affect both their diet quality and their social and emotional well-being. These insights provide perspectives on practical, social, and emotional aspects of cultural adaptation, informing potential support measures for international students in the Nordic context.

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