Expressed nutrition information needs of low-income homemakers

Abstract

A study to investigate the expressed nutrition information needs of low-income homemakers enrolled in the California Cooperative Extension's Expanded Nutrition Education Program was undertaken. It was thought that inquiry regarding nutrition needs and interests could identify those needs not previously recognized and pinpoint needs considered most important by the target audience. Program aides in four counties volunteered to gather data on home-makers' interests. The aides were trained to administer a questionnaire consisting of open-ended questions and a ranking question to newly enrolled homemakers. It was hoped that these homemakers were a representative cross-section of homemakers enrolled in the ENEP program during June 1973. At that time, 87% of the homemakers were racial minorities, one-third did not have more than an eighth grade education, and 37% were on welfare. A total of 128 completed questionnaires were returned. The responses were categorized into 10 general nutrition subject matter areas. The three top-ranking categories were divided into subtopics for closer examination. The primary need of low-income homemakers was for information on food shopping, meal planning, cooking, and recipes. They were also very concerned about the best foods for their families and to a much lesser extent, weight control. It is suggested that expressed nutrition information needs be taken into consideration in nutrition education program planning.