Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of Food Consumption in Household Kitchen of Rural Haryana: A Community-based Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Food availability is essential for addressing malnutrition. However, nutritional adequacy, which includes both the quantity and quality of food, is equally important. In India, the household serves as the fundamental unit of food consumption, and the health of all household members reflects the nutrient adequacy at this level. Aim: To assess the quantity and quality of food prepared in household kitchens in rural India. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2021 to June 2022 in village Juan, Haryana, India. Ninety households were selected using systematic random sampling. A dietary assessment was conducted to evaluate the food consumed at the household level. Additionally, a general physical examination was performed on all household members (n=405). The data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0, and the Chi-square test was applied to identify associations between micronutrients (iron, calcium, and folic acid) and socio-demographic variables (social caste, socioeconomic status, and household size). Results: Out of the 90 households, the majority (52.2%) followed a lacto-vegetarian diet and had adequate calorie intake (more than the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)) (80%), protein intake (97.8%), and fat intake (86.7%). However, only 34.4% (n=31) and 20% (n=18) of households had sufficient iron and folic acid intake, respectively, resulting in over half (51.1%) of the household members being clinically anaemic. Approximately one-third (31%) of the household members were found to be overweight. Conclusion: Despite the majority of households having an adequate quantity of food, there was a high prevalence of anaemia and malnutrition. Therefore, it is not only the quantity of food that is crucial for an individual’s health but also the quality and source of food.