Fish Consumption Patterns Research Articles

Contribution of fish to food and nutrition security in Southern Africa: challenges and opportunities in fish production

This study investigated the role of fish in addressing food and nutrition security challenges in Southern Africa, focusing on 10 countries including Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, and South Africa. It examined the current state of food and nutrition security, fish production, and fish consumption patterns. Additionally, the study investigated the challenges and opportunities to enhance fish production in these countries thereby enhancing food and nutrition security. The findings revealed persistent challenges such as a high prevalence of food insecurity and malnutrition throughout the region. Fish production is hindered by overexploitation of fishery resources, inadequate fisheries management, susceptibility to climate-related shocks, limited investments in aquaculture, and inadequate access to input supplies such as quality fish seed and feed. Despite these obstacles, opportunities exist to promote sustainable fish production to enhance food security and nutrition. Countries endowed with extensive coastlines and inland waters exhibit significant potential for fishery development, while landlocked nations are increasingly exploring aquaculture as a viable solution. Addressing the challenges in fish production and capitalizing on opportunities requires comprehensive governance, technological innovation, policy interventions, and investment to ensure the sustainability and resilience of the fisheries and aquaculture industries in the region.

Unveiling Regional Dynamics and Factors Influencing Fish Purchase and Consumption in Odisha, India

Despite India being a major global fish producer, per capita fish consumption remains notably low in several regions, raising concerns regarding the nutritional adequacy of diets. This study explores the factors influencing fish purchase and consumption patterns in the Cuttack and Khordha districts of Odisha, India. A comprehensive survey (n=400)was conducted, and a trans-regression analysis was applied to identify key factors. The results reveal that fish quality, with an emphasis on freshness, taste, and texture, is the most crucial factor influencing consumer preferences in both districts. Affordability, represented by fish prices, ranked second, while dressing facilities unexpectedly held significant importance, reflecting consumer preference for convenience in fish preparation. Sociocultural factors, including local traditions and dietary customs, also played a role but were less significant compared to other factors. The study highlights apromising trend of fish consumption exceeding recommended levels, contributing positively to nutritional goals. A comparative analysis betweenregions showed variability in meat consumption, with fish standing out as a primary dietary staple. These findings underscore the need for region-specific strategies to promote sustainable fish consumption, considering both economic and socio-cultural influences. The study contributes to the understanding of regional variations in fish consumption patterns and provides a foundation for targeted interventions to address nutritional challenges and promote sustainable dietary practices.

Geospatial fish consumption patterns and paradigmsin Odisha State, India

The current study investigated the geographic distribution and characteristics of fish consumption in Odisha State, India. The study was conducted across various locations, comprising urban coastal (Puri), rural coastal (Balasore), urban non-coastal (Cuttack) andrural non-coastal (Mayurbhanj) districts in the state. A total of 1440 respondents were selected for assessing the fish consumption patterns across theses diverse locations. According to the consumer profile, 82% of respondents were between the age of 20 and50, with 24% having a college degree. More than 90% of the respondents reported that they consume fish regularly. The results indicated that increased fish availability (62%), accessibility (52%), and affordability (48%) contributed to a rise in fish consumption over time. Over all, distance to the fish access points ranged between 1 to 2 . Catla was the most preferred fish species among consumers, followed by Rohu and other carps. Several barriers to increasing fish consumption were identified based on the perceptions of the respondents, such as erratic availability, lack of preference for fresh fish, wide price variations, limited access and high price. The data were analysed using a range of statistical and econometric methods, including conjoint analysis, preference assessment index and discriminant analysis. Keywords: Coastal, Conjoint analysis, Discriminant analysis, Fish consumption, Non-coastal, Preference assessment index

Determination of Fish Consumption Habits and Preferences of Teachers Working in Bingöl Province

This study aimed to determine the socio-demographic and economic characteristics, monthly expenditures, and meat and fish consumption patterns of teachers working in the city center of Bingöl Province. The data for the study were collected through face-to-face interviews conducted with teachers working in the city center of Bingöl between May 2023 and July 2023. According to the findings of the study, the average monthly net household income was calculated as 23984.596₺, the average monthly expenditure was 14906.215₺, the average monthly food expenditure was 5783.475₺, and the average monthly fish expenditure was 436.57₺. It was determined that the monthly fish consumption quantity of the surveyed teachers ranged from 1 kg to 2.66 kg, with an average of 2.54 kg, and they purchased trout from a fixed vendor during the winter months and consumed them baked in the oven, but this consumption amount was not sufficient for them. It was concluded that the tendency of the surveyed teachers to increase fish consumption was more strongly related to the decrease in fish prices rather than an increase in income. In other words, teachers expect a decrease in fish prices rather than an increase in their income to increase fish consumption. In conclusion, increasing the consumption of aquatic products, both in Bingöl and throughout Türkiye, is an important step that could have positive effects on health, and collaboration among various stakeholders is necessary to achieve this goal.

Association between Dietary Patterns and Cardiometabolic Multimorbidity among Chinese Rural Older Adults.

The global population is aging rapidly, leading to an increase in the prevalence of cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM). This study aims to investigate the association between dietary patterns and CMM among Chinese rural older adults. The sample was selected using a multi-stage cluster random sampling method and a total of 3331 rural older adults were ultimately included. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between the latent dietary patterns and CMM. The prevalence of CMM among rural older adults was 44.64%. This study identified four potential categories: "Low Consumption of All Foods Dietary Pattern (C1)", "High Dairy, Egg, and Red Meat Consumption, Low Vegetable and High-Salt Consumption Dietary Pattern (C2)", "High Egg, Vegetable, and Grain Consumption, Low Dairy and White Meat Consumption Dietary Pattern (C3)" and "High Meat and Fish Consumption, Low Dairy and High-Salt Consumption Dietary Pattern (C4)". Individuals with a C3 dietary pattern (OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.66-0.98; p = 0.028) and a C4 dietary pattern (OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.51-0.97; p = 0.034) significantly reduced the prevalence of CMM compared with the C1 dietary pattern. Rural older adults have diverse dietary patterns, and healthy dietary patterns may reduce the risk of CMM.

Assessment of Fish Consumption Patterns in the Lake Victoria Basin of Uganda

Assessment of Fish Consumption Patterns in the Lake Victoria Basin of Uganda

A Study on Fish Consumption Pattern among Pregnant Women in Kashmir Valley

Fish is one of the most important sources of animal protein, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, essential for the maintenance of health and metabolism. Besides, fish is reckoned as an ideal diet for expectant and lactating women owing to its high nutritional value and health benefits. In this paper, in order to assess the fish consumption pattern among the pregnant women of Kashmir, the current study was carried out in Kashmir valley of J&K region during June 2023. We explained the purpose of study to the respondents and after taking their consent, we chose 200 respondents at random on the basis of consecutive sampling procedure during the study period using a well- designed validated questionnaire and via direct personal interviews. The data collected from our survey was analysed statistically and interpreted using appropriate statistical tools. The study revealed that majority of the respondents consumed fish occasionally during pregnancy. The major reason for inappreciable consumption was found to be the lack of awareness about the health benefits of fish during this phase. Moreover, consumption pattern of fish was related to the educational background of the respondents as comparatively higher percentage of respondents who consumed fish was found to be educated. However the consumption pattern was not significantly associated with the family status. Hence, the study elicits the need to effectively communicate the benefits of fish consumption in order to encourage proper nutrient intake among pregnant and lactating mothers and their children.

Analysis of fish consumption patterns in the people of Bekasi Regency, West Java

Bekasi people's awareness to consume fish is still very low. Though fish is one of the foods that are cheap, easy to find, and have a high nutritional content. The purpose of this study was to analyze fish consumption patterns. The study was conducted by analyzing primary data on fish consumption patterns influenced by perceptions and preferences for fish products through direct interviews with 110 household members. The methods used in this study are descriptive analysis, logit analysis, quantitative analysis using the Chi-square test. The choice of fish as a source of animal protein consumed shows the consumption pattern of fresh fish both freshwater fish and seawater fish, based on the frequency of consumption patterns included in the large category, namely 70.9% fresh seawater fish and 24.5% fresh freshwater fish.

A study on present and prospective fish consumption pattern in district Kaushambi Uttar Pradesh

The main objective of the present study to find fish-consumption level, relationship between consumers’ performances and their socioeconomic characteristics and to investigate factors affecting consumer fish consumption and prospective fish consumption in district kaushambi. The study was carried out in chail tehsil of District Kaushambi Uttar Pradesh. Fish is a very important source of protein as it maintains healthy body and one of the most important sources of animal protein, vitamins and minerals. The paper presented here is to assess the fish consumption among the people of district Kaushambi. 150 respondents were chosen during July 2022 to December 2022 using a well-designed validated questionnaire. 50% of the respondents reported that they consume fish twice in a week and 30% respondents reported that they consume fish four times in a month. 75% of the respondents revealed that fish eating is good for health. About 70% of the respondents were found to unavailability of their choice fish. About 80% of the respondents were male members in the study. About 60% of the respondents were found to be in the age group of 30-60 years. Most of the respondents were 3-5 members family, literate and above poverty line. The constraints faced by the respondents were non availability of quality fish, high cost, lack of retail market, distance and scarcity of fish. Finally future prospects of consumption were discussed by establishment of Fish Market and Price Information System (FMPIS), e-commerce platforms, online market places to fish farmers/consumers in the study area.

Human health risks associated to trace elements and metals in commercial fish from the Brazilian Amazon

Fish constitutes the main protein source for the Amazonian population. However, the impact of different anthropogenic activities on trace element and metal accumulation in fish and their risks for human health at a regional scale remain largely unexplored. Here we assessed exposure levels of 10 trace elements and metals (Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb, and Hg) in 56 samples belonging to 11 different species of fish from the Brazilian Amazon. We studied the relationship between exposure levels, fish origin, and fish feeding habits, and assessed toxicological and carcinogenic risks for the Amazonian population. No significant correlation was found between sampling site and exposure levels to the studied elements, but a significant difference was found between the accumulation of some metals and the position of the fish species in the food chain. The concentrations of Cr and Hg in fish flesh were found to exceed the Brazilian limits for human consumption. This study shows that current fish consumption patterns can lead to estimated daily intakes of Hg, As and Cr that exceed the oral reference dose, thus posing a toxicological concern. Furthermore, carcinogenic risks may be expected due to the continued exposure to Cr and As. The results of this study show that the consumption of wild caught fish in the Amazon region should be controlled. Moreover, continued monitoring of trace element and metal contamination in fish and on the health of the Amazonian population is recommended, particularly for riverine and indigenous communities.

Exploring Perceptions and Health Awareness in Fish Consumption Across Coastal and Inland Kerala

The study investigated fish consumption patterns and consumer perceptions in Kerala, focusing on coastal and inland districts during 2020. Using a sample of 396 households from four districts and employing suitable tests, the study reveals significant disparities in monthly and per capita fish consumption, with coastal areas displaying higher rates. The majority of consumers hold a moderate perception of nutritional and health benefits, indicating a need for targeted health awareness programs. Coastal and inland consumers differ significantly in their perceptions, with coastal residents demonstrating greater awareness of dietary advantages, while inland consumers express resignation to lower quality due to supply chain limitations. Urban consumers exhibit an optimistic health perception, contrasting with rural concerns about certification systems and government inefficiencies in ensuring safe fish. The study emphasizes the necessity for customized information dissemination and awareness programs to address the diverse concerns of fish consumers in Kerala.

Analysis of the Factors Affecting the Tendency of Fishery Consumption: Case of Iğdır Province

In the research, socio-economic and demographic factors affecting the fish consumption amount of consumers in Iğdır province were tried to be determined. The main material of the research is the survey data obtained from 325 consumers residing in the province of Iğdır and determined by using the commensurate sampling method. In the research, the factors affecting the fish consumption amount of the consumers were analyzed with the sequential probit model. In the sequential probit model created, the fish consumption levels of the consumers were used as the addict variable, and the inaddict variables were determined as gender, income level, frequency of fish consumption, type of fish consumed, annual red meat consumption and type of fish consumption. The model results; The variables of gender, income level, frequency of fish consumption, type of fish consumed, annual red meat consumption and fish consumption pattern were all found to be statistically significant. According to the ordinal probit model results, it was determined that the gender of the consumer decreased the fish consumption level. As expected in the research, it was defined that there was a negative relationship between income level and fish consumption level, and a positive relationship between fish consumption frequency and consumption amount. With respect to the model conculsions, it was defined that there is a positive relationship between the amount of red meat consumption of consumers and the amount of fish consumption.

Preliminary Ethnoichthyological Assessment: Fish Consumption Patterns among Orang Asli Semelai (Aborigines: Proto-Malay) in Tasek Bera, Pahang

Ethnoichthyology, as a field of study, examines the indigenous knowledge held by ethnic groups concerning different fish species. Despite its significance in understanding traditional fishing practices and cultural connections to aquatic resources, data on fish species consumption among the Orang Asli Semelai community remain limited. Therefore, this ethnoichthyological preliminary study aims to address this research gap by documenting the fish species utilized by the Orang Asli Semelai in the Tasek Bera region of Pahang, Malaysia. To achieve this objective, a comprehensive survey and interview session were conducted with a small sample size of four randomly chosen respondents. The study identified 15 fish species solely consumed as food by the community. The most commonly consumed fish species were the Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus) and Snakehead Murrel (Channa striata). Additionally, the study revealed the presence of the Critically Endangered Jullien's Golden Carp (Probarbus jullieni) among the consumed species, indicating the urgent need for conservation efforts. The findings underscore the significance of integrating sustainable fishing practices and conservation efforts to protect the unique ecosystem of Tasek Bera and preserve the cultural heritage of the Orang Asli Semelai community. Further comprehensive studies and collaborative approaches are vital to safeguarding the region's aquatic biodiversity and ensuring the community's food security sustainably.

A segmentation of fish consumers based on quantity and type of fish: Insights from the Swedish market

The primary objective of this study is to elucidate the underlying factors contributing to the observed differences in fish consumption patterns. To accomplish this, a segmentation analysis was conducted on a representative sample of 2207 individuals from Sweden based on the dual dimensions of both the volume and variety of fish ingested. By scrutinizing these facets, the aim is to gain deeper insights into the distinct consumer archetypes characterized by their diverse fish consumption habits, thus uncovering the catalysts and deterrents that influence these patterns.The outcome of the segmentation analysis (i.e., two-step analysis: hierarchical clustering followed by non-hierarchical clustering technique) reveals four distinct consumer segments, each possessing unique attributes concerning their preferences and behaviours regarding fish consumption. These segments are classified as the “Frequent,” “Avid,” “Occasional,” and “Infrequent” fish consumers. The profiling of these segments is built on factors encompassing consumers' decision-making styles, involvement in food, environmental consciousness, as well as pertinent socio-economic variables including income, geographical location, age, educational attainment, and gender.Evident from the findings is the clear demarcation of two segments characterized by robust fish consumption tendencies, specifically the “Frequent” and “Avid” segments. Subsequently, there exists a segment showcasing moderately pronounced fish consumption behaviours labelled as the “Occasional” consumer group, in contrast to a segment demonstrating a markedly diminished inclination for fish consumption, denoted as the “Infrequent” consumer.All segments score high on habitual and brand-loyal purchasing intentions which emphasize the routine nature of fish consumption behaviour. In a broader context, the study underscores the inherent utility of segmenting consumers based on fish consumption volume and type, as this approach yields distinct consumer groups that can be systematically addressed by stakeholders ranging from policy makers to producers and other seafood advocates.

Exploring Fish Consumption Patterns: A Comparative Study of Urban and Rural Households in Kawardha, (Kabirdham District) Chhattisgarh, India

This study examined regional differences in fish consumption patterns and their correlation with household characteristics in the Kawardha block of Chhattisgarh, India. The study explored various aspects of fish consumption, including occupation, monthly income and expenditure, consumption frequency, species preference, factors influencing fish consumption, and constraints faced by fish consumers. A survey was conducted with 100 respondents (50 households from each region), randomly selected. The collected data were analysed using frequency and percentage and the findings revealed that rural households consumed more fish compared to urban households, with Rohu (Labeo rohita) emerging as the preferred fish species in both regions. The majority of consumers in both rural (45.25%) and urban areas (62.5%) preferred to consume fish once a week. The High Income group (HIG) urban households (82.75%) and low-income group (LIG) rural households (88.23%) were the primary fish consumers. The study also observed that households with a heavy occupational lifestyle consumed more fish (68%) in rural areas, whereas households with a sedentary occupational lifestyle consumed more fish in urban areas (44%). Factors influencing fish consumption were found to be the price and quality of fish. Constraints faced by fish consumers included concerns about hygiene and the availability of desired fish sizes. Various reasons were identified for the reluctance to consume fish, such as the presence of bones, religious beliefs, and sensory preferences. Understanding the regional disparities in fish consumption patterns and the associated household characteristics can guide targeted interventions for promoting sustainable and healthy fish consumption practices in both rural and urban areas. This knowledge can contribute to the development of strategies to address constraints and improve fish consumption habits, leading to better nutrition and overall well-being of inhabitants of both regions.

Study of Factors Influencing Fish Consumption Pattern in Punjab (India)

Study of Factors Influencing Fish Consumption Pattern in Punjab (India)

A cross-sectional study on the nutritional status, dietary diversity, and small fish consumption patterns in coastal fishing communities of Ghana

Fish is readily available to fishing communities. Given the high nutritional value of fish, these communities are expected to have better nutritional status, compared to non-fishing communities. However, this assumption is not well studied across coastal fishing communities in Ghana. Hence, this cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the nutritional status, dietary patterns, and fish consumption of children living in coastal fishing communities in Ghana. Nutritional status of 384 randomly selected children was assessed using the mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) measurement. MUAC less than 12.5 cm was used as the cutoff to identify malnourished children. Food and fish consumption patterns were assessed using an adopted and pretested food frequency questionnaire. The findings showed a prevalence of 0.5% wasting among surveyed children. The mean dietary diversity score (DDS) of the study participants was 4.3 ± 1.2. The mean DDS of the children of fisher mothers was less than that of the children of the female caregivers who are involved in other occupations. However, no significant difference was observed in the DDS across the coastal regions. Seventy eight percent of the children who participated in the study consumed an adequately diversified diet, and more than 40 different small fish species were consumed across the four coastal regions. The average median weekly fish intake among the children in the study sample was 213 (64–468) g. Considering that one-third of the employed respondents were fisherfolk, coupled with the availability of a great diversity of small fish in the communities, the findings of our study suggest that there is great potential to incorporate small fish into strategic interventions aimed at improving nutrition, food security, and achieving economic sustainability in these communities.

Human biomonitoring of heavy metals exposure in different age- and gender-groups based on fish consumption patterns in typical coastal cities of China

The study aimed to investigate heavy metals (HMs) concentrations in human hair based on fish consumption patterns in Qingdao, Xiamen, and Zhoushan. The (HMs) concentrations were determined using acid digestion and an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS, NexION 300X, PerkinElmer). The associated health risks were investigated using risk assessment models described by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). The order of fish HMs concentration in Qingdao was Cd<Pb<As>Cr<Cu<Zn, while The in Zhoushan and Xiamen the order was Cd<Pb<Cr<Cu<As<Zn. The highest concentrations of HMs in fish were found in Zhoushan and lowest in Xiamen. Zn showed the highest values in fish, while Cd and Pb were the lowest. The Cr concentration in Scomberomorus niphonius collected in Qingdao exceeded the safety standards. The HMs in both male and female hair followed a descending order of Zn>Cu>Pb>Cr>As>Cd in all three study areas. The hair Zn concentration in 28 % of the studied population exceeded the safety standards. Overall, the hair HMs concentration was found to be high in middle-aged groups (19–45 and 45–59), and the hair HMs concentrations were high, especially in the case of females. A significant correlation was noticed between hair As (0.119; p < 0.05), Cr (0.231; p < 0.05),) and Cu (0.117; p < 0.05),) and fish consumption frequency. High Odd ratios (>2) were noticed for As, Cu and Zn in high fish-eating frequency. A significant non-carcinogenic risk was noticed in human Cr exposure (1.10E+00) in Xiamen, and the hazard index values indicated non-carcinogenic risk in Xiamen and Zhoushan. The carcinogenic risk for human As exposure (2.50E-05–7.09E-03) indicated a significant cancer risk.

Analysis of Fish Consumption Pattern of People in Jombang District, East Java, during Pandemic and Endemic Covid-19

Fishery resources are a good source of food for human health. The fisheries sector plays a role in food security, not only as a complement but also plays a role in fulfilling food, nutrition, and protein sources, as well as people's income. Food security is closely related to the continuity of fish supply to meet people's needs. In this study the method used was survey method with the type of research used was descriptive research with a quantitative approach and data collection techniques in this study by conducting a survey using a questionnaire. The low consumption of fish in the community is caused by a lack of public knowledge about information on the nutritional content and benefits of consuming fish. The survey results stated that 89.3% of the respondents already knew the benefits of fish and the remaining 10.7% did not know the benefits of fish. As much as 85.4% of the people of Jombang District, East Java, get fish by buying it themselves at traditional markets with 80.6% liking fresh fish products and 19.4% liking processed fish products. As many as 79.6% of the people of Jombang District, East Java consider the quality of fish before buying fish; 45.6% stated that the ease of obtaining fish was their consideration in buying fish; and 50.5% stated price as their consideration in buying fish. As many as 83.5% of respondents stated that there was no difference in fish consumption patterns before and after the pandemic era. After the pandemic, people's frquency in consuming fish has increased, although not significantly. This is possibly due to the start of a sense of public awareness of the body's nutritional needs after the pandemic era.

The Love to Eat Fish Campaign (Gemarikan) in an effort to improve nutrition in Pancor Village, East Lombok Regency

The low level of fish consumption in Indonesia has an impact on malnutrition. One of the efforts to improve nutrition from an early age is through the Fish-Eating Movement (Gemarikan) program. Gemarikan is a movement to motivate people to increase their fish consumption patterns. The importance of regulating fish consumption patterns from an early age must be prioritized because fish is one of the important sources of protein needed in the growth and development stages of children from an early age. The purpose of this community service is to be able to provide knowledge about the importance of consuming fish, so that they are more interested in consuming fish. fish compared to other foods. The service method consists of a location survey stage and the Gemarikan campaign through socialization. Participants in this service activity consist of early childhood with an age range of 6-12 years and the surrounding community. This activity was carried out at the Nurul Imam Al-Quran Education Park (TPQ) in the Pancor Lauq Mosque, East Lombok Regency. This activity received a very good reception as evidenced by the enthusiastic participants and lots of interaction in the form of discussion of participants and presenters during this activity. The benefits of this activity are expected to provide knowledge about the benefits of consuming it so that it can increase interest in consuming fish from an early age so that it can raise the degree of nutritional value for children in Indonesia, especially in East Lombok Regency.