Revision of “Nutritional Reference Values for Feeding at Evacuation Shelters” and Model Menus: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Objective In 2011, the Japanese government issued nutritional reference values for energy; protein; vitamins B1, B2, and C; and salt to deal with poor meal quality in evacuation shelters. Because they were not widely used owing to their impracticality, the authors had examined the values according to the experience-based opinions of public health dietitians. Furthermore, we developed a usage tool containing a model menu that meets these values. This study aimed to confirm the usability of these revised values and model menus and collect ideas for improvement. Methods We conducted 8 semi-structured group interviews with 12 dietitians, 9 disaster management officers, and 2 public health nurses in local governments supposed to have been affected by a large-scale disaster. Results New reference values were highly evaluated by most participants. Interviewees said that model menus were helpful for evacuees or disaster officers who are unfamiliar with nutrition because they show combinations of food items that meet the reference values instead of the amounts of energy and nutrients. To improve their understanding, it was suggested that food items be categorized by staples, main dishes, and side dishes, encouraging them to complete these three components of a balanced diet. Because it was difficult to meet all the reference values in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, it was suggested that the time-dependent priority of each nutrient and model menus that supply the nutrient should be shown by disaster phases along with the assumed availability of utility for cooking in each phase. Conclusion The new reference values were feasible to meet during emergencies. Although model menus were also appreciated, further improvements were necessary for better understanding.