Factors Influencing the Calorie Intake from the Selection and Consumption of Beverages Among Youths

Beverage consumption augments youths’ calorie intake, increasing their susceptibility to Non-Communicable Diseases. Factors such as knowledge, attitude, perceived norms and personal agency may influence their beverage choices. This study aims to determine the factors that correlate with beverage consumption habits, in terms of daily calorie intake, among youths. The secondary aim of the study is to identify the barriers and enablers to healthier beverage consumption. From 2023 to 2024, a self-administered e-survey was distributed to participants across Singapore aged 15–24 years. Data on their demographics and beverage consumption habits were collected through the secured electronic platform FormSG. Linear regression was used to assess the factors influencing personal beverage choice and consumption based on the Integrated Behavioral Model (IBM) framework. A total of 352 participants were analyzed, and their median daily calorie intake was 182 kcal (IQR = 96–331) from beverages, with 43% attributed to Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs). Linear regression revealed that females ( \(\beta \) = −45, 95%CI = −82 to −8, p = 0.018) and a higher Personal Agency score ( \(\beta \) = −57, 95%CI = −88 to -26, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with lower SSB consumption. The Personal Agency construct had the greatest influence (standardized \(\beta \) = -39) on SSB consumption, while the Knowledge, Attitude and Perceived Norm constructs were not significant. Participants reported taste (60%) and cost (32.7%) as the major factors in selecting healthier beverages. Awareness of SSBs’ negative health impact (71%) and concern over future health (70.7%) were the main enablers. SSBs contributed substantially to youths’ daily beverage calorie intake. Personal Agency emerged as a key determinant of participants’ SSB consumption habits. Taste preferences, cost considerations and SSB literacy were identified as primary influences on the selection of healthier beverages.