Lutein and zeaxanthin are important anti-oxidant nutrients obtained only from foods that are essential for good eye health. The purpose of this study was to assess food choices rich in lutein/zeaxanthin and compare the amount of lutein/zeaxanthin intake amongst college students and their live-in parents. Three-day dietary records from 95 undergraduate college students were reviewed and compared with the records of an equal number of their live-in parents. The study included 76 African Americans (AA) (38 young AA, 38 old AA) and 114 Caucasian Americans (57 young Caucasians, 57 old Caucasians). Individuals in this study had an average of 2.5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. It was calculated that they consumed approximately 2 mg per day of lutein/zeaxanthin from their regular diets. The statistical analyses of ethnic, gender, and age subgroups were performed. There were no statistical differences in food consumption and lutein/zeaxanthin intakes between ethnic, age and gender groups in this study. Both the recommended daily consumption of 5 to 9 servings of fruits/vegetables and the daily intake of 6 mg/day of lutein/zeaxanthin were unmet by all subjects in this study. Great effort in educating the public is therefore needed for eye health. (Contains 4 figures and 6 tables.)