Abstract:
The persisting challenge of obtaining culturally and religiously appropriate food
among Muslim university students in Manila adversely affects their nutrition, health and
overall well-being. This study investigates the barriers in accessing halal food in
university settings, explores potential solutions, and provides policy recommendations
to address these challenges. A multi-method approach is also implemented, combining
the Qualitative Diary Method (QDM), Remote Food Photography Method (RFPM), and
triangulation method. These methods analyze students’ daily experiences and coping
strategies in the absence of accessible halal food. Data reveal that Muslim students
experience inequities in terms of food availability, accessibility, accommodation,
affordability, and acceptability within and near public institutions failing to prioritize the
Muslim needs. This highlights the notion that institutions often fail to adequately
accommodate diverse dietary needs of their population which undermines inclusivity
within the community. Addressing these inequities requires a multifaceted approach
involving development on food policies such as mandating clear labeling of foods,
increasing the number of halal food stalls on respective campuses, and creation of
institutional policies. Future research can aim to broaden the geographic scope, and
include other factors such as socioeconomic status of the population, institutions’
perspective, or etc. to provide more comprehensive solutions.
