The contribution of wild vegetables to micronutrient intakes among women: An example from the Mekong delta, Vietnam

Abstract

No previous dietary intake study in Vietnam has focused on contemporary use of wild vegetables (Rau dai). In this study the contribution of such gathered vegetables to micronutrient intake of women was investigated in two villages in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Dietary assessments (24‐h recall and repeated 7‐day FFQ) were conducted on 110 and 101 women, respectively, in the rainy season as well as the flood period. Twenty aquatic and terrestrial wild vegetables were recorded in the dietary assessments. Popular wild species were among the most frequently used vegetables, used alternatively with home‐cultivated or commercial vegetables. Wild plants contributed 81% and 63%, respectively, of the daily intake of vegetables during the flood period and rainy season. They made important contributions to the intake of carotene, vitamin C, calcium and iron. We conclude that there is a need to pay specific attention to the role of wild vegetables especially in the diets of the rural poor.