Fruits and vegetables intake are associated with ethnicity and socio-demographic factors in Mauritius

Abstract

Fruits and vegetables intake (FVI) in the human diet is strongly related to health status and incidence of diseases. The purpose of this paper is to hypothesize that demographic factors and food insecurity could be associated with the frequency of FVI in a multicultural community such as Mauritius. Information pertaining to socio-demographic factors, anthropometric measurements, medical history, lifestyle factors, reason(s) for dietary choice and food insecurity factors were amassed randomly from 374 adults. The mean FVI was found to be significantly lower (p<0.05) for the food insecure respondents (n=39). Also, significant (p<0.05) associations between FVI and the level of education (p=0.031 and p=0.012, respectively), ethnic groups (p=0.028 and p=0.013, respectively), income ranges (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively), and food insecurity (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively) were noted. A high income was also significantly related to a higher FVI. With respect to disease occurrence, a significant (p=0.035) relationship was found with respect to FVI and respiratory diseases. The paper shows that there is a pressing need to re-evaluate efficiency of existing nutrition policies and programs. Also that it is important to establish more sensitization campaigns geared towards the above-mentioned target groups with respect to FVI. Authorities concerned should also endeavour to achieve affordable, accessible and safe fruits and vegetables as a mean to promote a healthy eating culture in Mauritius. © 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited