| Summary: | A validated Stage of Change (SOC) algorithm is needed for Transtheoretical Model-informed interventions designed to increase consumption of plant-based protein. To use dietary intake as a validation of a newly developed plant-based protein SOC algorithm in college students. The algorithm included the target behavior "Do you try to incorporate plant-based proteins as your main source of dietary protein?" with the 5 standard SOC temporal response categories. Consenting students (n=119) ages 18-24 from introductory Nutrition classes in a Northeastern college. The NCI Diet History Questionnaire III (assessment timeframe previous year) and SOC algorithm were the primary study instruments. t-tests or X2 for demographic and MANOVA for dietary variables comparing stages (Pre-Maintenance [PM] and Maintenance [M]) M was used instead of the standard post-action stages (Action and Maintenance) due to the Questionnaire time frame. Mean±SD are reported for continuous variables. The distribution of the sample was 79.8% PM, 20.2% M. There were no differences in demographic variables: age 18.8±1.3 years, race/ethnicity (84% White), sex (80.5% female). There was a multivariate effect for dietary variables (Wilks Lambda) F(6,111)=6.2, p<0.001. There were univariate effects for %animal protein PM 66.2±10.0, M 51.2±17.7, F(6,116)=30.1, p<0.001; %vegetable protein PM 33.8±10.0, M 48.8±17.7, F(6,116)=30.1, p<0.001; dietary fiber (g) PM 19.7±12.05, M 31.0±20.5, F(6,116) =11.7, p<0.001; total fruit (c) PM 1.2±.1, M 1.9±1.3, F(6,116) =6.9, p=0.01; total vegetables (c) PM 1.7±1.2, M 3.5±3.8, F(6,116) =15.8, p<0.001 but no effect (p>0.05) for % kcal protein PM 15.0±.4.2, M 15.3±4.2. Participants who perceived that they were in Maintenance for plant-based proteins consumed less animal protein and more plant-based protein as well as more fruits, vegetables, and dietary fiber than students who perceived they were not. There were no differences in overall protein intake. These results provide empirical validation for the use of this algorithm in college populations. Additional research is needed to determine if the plant-based SOC algorithm is valid in diverse populations. None
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