FOOD LITERACY AND CRITICAL CITIZENSHIP AMONG ADOLESCENTS: A MIXED-METHODS EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON TRANSFORMATIVE EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTIONS

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of a Critical Food Systems Pedagogy intervention in promoting food literacy, critical thinking, and self-efficacy among adolescents. Using a quasi-experimental design with 124 students aged 14–16, the intervention integrated school gardens, peer education, service-learning, and digital modules. Results showed significant improvements in food literacy, self-efficacy, critical awareness, and social responsibility, supporting the value of transformative educational models.