Knowledge and Utilization of Mushroom as a Food Supplement among Families in Selected Local Government Areas of Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

The demand for health consciousness to prevent malnutrition, a high risk factor in developing countries especially in the rural areas is increasing. This study was designed to assess the level of knowledge and utilization of mushroom as a food supplement in six Local Government Areas of Cross River State, one predominantly urban and the other five mostly rural. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire from a total of 250 participants. Findings revealed that 178 (71.2%) of respondents had good knowledge of mushrooms as food supplement 205 (82%) utilized them as such, while majority of the participants 243 (93.6%) 20.1% said it is part of the family diet if available. Chi-square analysis showed statically significant association between knowledge and utilization (X2 cal = 89.62a, X2 tab = 3.84; df = 1, p < 0.05). In conclusion, we envision mushrooms as the most cost-effective source of a healthier diet tackling food insecurity, diversification and malnutrition for families in Cross River.