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Food vending marketing and promotion strategies in school environments in Tanzania
(The sub Saharan Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2023-12-26) Muhomba, Elina S.; Msollo, Safiness S.; Mwanri, Akwilina W.
Marketing and consumption of ultra-processed foods have increased across countries in Africa and it is associated with the risk of childhood obesity. The current school food environment has been reported to contribute to the increase in obesity rates worldwide; hence a need for increasing attention to the roles of the school environment in changing children’s dietary behaviour. This study assessed marketing and promotion strategies for foods sold around the school environments in Tanzania. A cross-sectional study involved 335 parent/caregiver-child pairs from rural and urban settings of Morogoro region. A stratified sampling technique was used to acquire a sample of children from registered primary schools. The schools were stratified into districts based on location and sampled separately through a probability sampling technique whereby, the population of school children in each school was divided into strata based on school ownership and area of residence. A total of eight schools were sampled with an equal number of private and public schools in each of the locations. Data on food marketing and promotion strategies were collected from 32 food vendors while information on food availability and factors influencing purchasing behavior were obtained from the children through structured questions. An observation checklist was used to collect additional information on food availability and marketing and promotion strategies for foods sold around the school environment. Data was analyzed using IBM -SPSS) version 21 software. Chi-square was used to test the difference between foods available in rural and urban school environments. The findings revealed that 60% of foods were processed in rural compared to urban areas (40%). More ultra-processed foods such as carbonated soft drinks, candies and ice lollies were identified in the urban (60.8%) than in rural-based schools (39.2%). The most purchased foods around schools were potato balls (49.4%), ice cream (47.5%), corn snacks (chama) (46.2%), chocolates (43.9%), carbonated soft drinks (37.3%), candies (36.6%) and sweet ice-lollies (34.4%). The most common marketing and promotion strategies around schools were posters, price reduction and packaging. Feeling hungry, food price, environment and social pressure were the factors contributing to food purchasing behaviour for foods sold around schools. Most of the foods consumed around the schools were ultra-processed and multiple marketing and promotion methods were used. The government through the Ministry of Education should regulate the types of foods sold in schools and plan for healthier school meals for all students by strengthening the school feeding program.
Bioactive compounds in Diospyros mafiensis roots inhibit growth, sporulation and aflatoxin production by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus
(Wageningen Academic Publishers, 2017-01-20) Mmongoyo, J.A.; Nair, M.G.; Linz, J.E.; Wu, F.; Mugula, J.K.; Dissanayake, A.A.; Zhang, C.; Day, D.M.; Wee, J.M.; Strasburg, G.M.
Diospyros mafiensis F. White is a medicinal shrub or small tree (6 m tall) widely distributed in the Zanzibar- Inhambane regional mosaic and traditionally used to treat leprosy, diarrhoea, and skin fungal infections in Tanzania and Mozambique. Our objective was to determine the anti-aflatoxigenic properties of compounds from D. mafiensis root bark against vegetative growth, sporulation and aflatoxin production by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Bioassay-guided extraction, fractionation, and isolation of bioactive compounds using A. parasiticus B62 were employed. The bioactive compounds were elucidated using 1 H and 13 CNMR and LC-MS. Growth inhibition was determined by measuring the colony diameter of A. flavus AF3357 and A. parasiticus SU-1 ATCC56775. Inhibitory effects on sporulation were estimated using a haemocytometer. Total aflatoxin was quantified by direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Bioactive compounds diosquinone (DQ) and 3-hydroxydiosquinone (3HDQ) were identified. DQ weakly inhibited A. flavus and A. parasiticus vegetative growth (MIC 50 >100 μg/ml) and 3HDQ strongly inhibited A. flavus (MIC 50 = 14.9 μg/ml) and A. parasiticus (MIC 50 = 39.1 μg/ml). DQ strongly reduced total aflatoxin production by A. flavus from 157 to 36 ng/plate, and by A. parasiticus from 1,145 ng/plate to 45 ng/plate at 100 μg/ml. 3HDQ reduced total aflatoxin production by A. parasiticus from 1,145 to 32 ng/plate; stimulated production by A. flavus from 157 to 872 ng/plate at 12.5 μg/ml but reduced to 45 ng/plate at 100 μg/ ml. In summary, DQ and 3HDQ could be used as natural antifungal compounds to prevent mould growth and aflatoxin accumulation in food and feed.
Dietary intake of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids among pregnant and breastfeeding women in Morogoro, Tanzania
(Academic Journals, 2023-10-26) Tesha, Tesha Anna Peter; Mwanri, Akwilina Wendelin; Nyaruhucha, Cornelio
A new-born’s health and wellbeing is determined by the diet and lifestyle of the mother prior, during and after conception. Polyunsaturated fatty acids play an important role for proper development of brain and other organs in the body. This study sought to assess dietary intake of omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids among pregnant and breastfeeding women in Morogoro municipality, Tanzania. About 318 women completed a repeated 24 h dietary recall questionnaire. For calculation of fatty acid intake, the foods consumed by each participant were entered independently in Nutri Survey software where the amount of nutrients consumed by each individual was calculated and then exported to SPSS for further analysis. The results showed high intake of non-alcoholic and carbonated beverages (213.4 g/day) and low intake of omega 6 and omega 3 rich foods (54.6 g/day). More than half could not attain the recommended minimum dietary diversity score. The average intake of important omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids ranged from 0.06 to 1.19 g/day and 0.17 to 0.25 g/day, respectively. When compared with the recommended intake of energy as well as important omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids for both pregnant and breastfeeding women, there were gaps in all of these aspects. Intake of omega 6 and omega 3 rich foods among pregnant and breastfeeding women was lower than recommended. Nutrition education on consumption of appropriate polyunsaturated fatty acid rich foods prior, during and after pregnancy should be given to all women of reproductive age.
Risk scores for selective screening for gestational diabetes in Sub Saharan Africa
(Nova Science Publishers, 2020) Mwanri, Akwilina Wendelin; Msollo, Safiness Simon
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a threat to maternal and child health. Timely detection and proper management of GDM may reduce the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes and improve wellbeing of the mother and the child. Prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus is increasing worldwide with the highest increase noted in middle- and low-income countries. These countries also suffer from limited resources to properly diagnose and manage gestational diabetes mellitus and other pregnancy complications. This chapter reviews the existing selective screening methods and their application in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA). The current guideline recommends universal screening for all pregnant women at any time during pregnancy to ensure that affected women have the opportunity of receiving proper management to prevent adverse outcomes. However, in the countries with limited human, infrastructure and financial resources, this may be a challenge. The use of selective screening reduces the number of unnecessary oral glucose tolerance test hence maximize the use of available resources. Nevertheless, the use of selective screening may still have challenges due to lack of uniformity and variations on results from application of the risk scores. The methods used to identify risk factors vary across the countries depending on the research design, selection of participants, gestational age at screening and diagnosis criteria used. Some risk score models did not perform well because of the challenges in proper identification of risk factors; for example, body mass index (BMI) is known to be one of the important predictors of GDM. However, some studies use pre-gestational BMI by maternal recall of body weight before conception while others used BMI at first clinic visit regardless of gestational age. Furthermore, there are variations in gestational age at screening and diagnosis method used. There is a need to develop country specific checklist for the risk factors which is simple, clear and easy to use at the clinic and for self-identification to enhance self-care.
Maternal socio-economic and cultural influence on feeding practices and nutritional status of children aged 0-23 months: a case of Muheza district.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2010) Kilimali Emma Vincent
Maternal socio-economic and cultural factors such as marital status, educational level, occupation and economic status may have some influence on feeding practices and hence nutritional status of children under two years of age. This study aimed at investigating maternal social, economic and cultural influences on feeding practices and nutritional status of under two years of age children in Muhcza district of Tanga region; using a cross-sectional survey design. A .questionnaire was used to collect socio-economic and feeding practices data; focus group discussions were conducted to collect cultural data. Nutritional status assessment was done using summary indices of nutritional status: weight-for-age, height-for-age and weight-for-height. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed for all variables using ■> Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Anthropometric data was analyzed using Nutrisurvey for SMART software and was later on transported to SPSS for further analysis. More than half of mothers (77.6%) fed their babies colostrum. Nearly half (49%) of the mothers initiated breastfeeding within one hour, and only 19.1% infants were exclusively breastfed. Mothers’ educational level and monthly income came out to be significant risk factors for improper initiation of breastfeeding (P<0.05). Exclusive breastfeeding was highly associated with educational level of the mothers (P<0.05) rather than any other socio-economic variables. The introduction of complementary foods was found to be influenced by marital status (P<0.05) and monthly income of the mother (P<0.01). Among all under two years of age children surveyed, 11.2% were underweight, 37.5% were stunted, and 6.6% were wasted. There was a significant relationship between feeding practices of under two years of age children and maternal socio-economic and iii cultural practices. The study revealed that under-nutrition of the under two children was an important public problem in the area. Family members especially mothers need to be provided with knowledge and skills on child feeding practices so that they could adopt correct feeding practices to overcome the possible consequences of malnutrition.
Dietary intake and diversity among children of age 6–59 months in lowland and highland areas in Kilosa District in Morogoro, Tanzania
(Elservier, 2023-06-27) Mrema, J.D.; Nyaruhucha, C.N.; Mwanri, A.W.
Adequate nutrition during infancy and early childhood is essential to ensure children’s growth, health, and development to their full potential. Geographical area may influence dietary intake and, hence, the population’s nutritional status. This study aimed to assess dietary intake among children aged 6–59 months in the lowland and highland areas in the Kilosa District, Morogoro. A cross-sectional study involved 200 randomly selected households from the lowland and 141 in the highland areas. Socio-demographic characteristics, feeding prac tices, and 24-h dietary recall information were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. In assessing dietary intake, a single day 24-h dietary recall was used where a mother/care giver was asked to recall foods and beverages fed to the child in the 24 h prior to the interview. Mean daily nutrient intake (calorie, vitamin A, iron, calcium and zinc) were estimated using NutriSurvey version 2007 with food database from Tanzania Food composition table. Furthermore, Dietary Diversity Score was done by grouping the mentioned foods into the seven main food groups which are grains, roots and tubers; legumes and nuts; Vitamin A rich fruits and vege tables; other fruits and vegetable; dairy products; and flesh foods and eggs. For each food group consumed, a score of one was assigned and a zero score for the non-consumed group. Inadequate intakes of vitamin A, calcium, and iron were observed more in younger children of age 6–12 months, where none of them met the RDA in both areas. There was a significant difference only in fat intake in children aged 12–36 months between the lowland and highland areas. Children who reside in the lowland area had a significantly more diversified diet. Nutrition education with promotion of home gardening and keeping small animals is necessary to ensure household food availability which subsequently will facilitate dietary diversification.
Farmer’s knowledge and practices on proper use of pesticides on tomato production to ensure safety among consumers: a case study of Mvomero district, Morogoro
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Fundikira, S. S.; Selestine, E.; Msollo, S. S.
Farmer’s knowledge and practices on proper use of pesticides in vegetables production is very crucial for increasing productivity while reducing the associated health risks. However, knowledge and practices on the use of pesticides in tomatoes production is limited. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing knowledge and practices on proper use of pesticides in tomatoes production for appropriate interventions. A cross sectional study was done at Doma and Mlali wards in Mvomero district among 120 randomly selected tomato farmers who were face to face interviewed using a questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done using SPSSTM version 20. Results showed that 100% of farmers used pesticides to control tomato pests and diseases of which 54% preferred Snow tiger (Chlorofenapyr) and Dudumetrin (Sumithrin). About 85% reported to be reading pesticide instructions before applying but 45.8% among them did not adhere to the instructions claiming the recommended dosage to be inefficient. About 57% harvest tomatoes after seven days while others harvest at any time when they get customers. Ninety two percent of the farmers know the effects of improper use of pesticides on health however; among them 20% are not sure of the specific health effects. Knowledge on health effects of improper use of pesticide was significantly associated with reading instructional labels (AOR 2.99, 95% CI: 1.06-3.95) after adjusting for education levels and attending trainings on pesticides use. Generally, there is low knowledge on proper use of pesticides in tomatoes production and their associated health effects which creates a need for educating farmers and the public on proper use of pesticides to safeguard the health of consumers.
Knowledge and perceptions on overweight and obesity among adults in Same district, Tanzania
(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2023-09-14) Massawe, E. S.; Msollo, S. S.
Overweight and obesity are nutritional problems requiring great attention in both developed and developing countries where nutrition knowledge is confined to few people allied with health sectors. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess knowledge and perception about overweight and obesity among 362 adults aged 25-55 years in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region. This age group comprises active people at higher risk of non-communicable diseases, and much of the effects may not be due to aging. A structured questionnaire was administered through a face-to-face interview to obtain demographic characteristics, nutrition knowledge and perception about overweight and obesity. Standard WHO Anthropometric procedure of weight and height measurement was used to obtain Body Mass Index (BMI) which was categorized as normal (18.5-24.9kg/m2), overweight (25-29.9kg/m2) and obesity (≥30 kg/m2). A high prevalence of overweight (23%) and obesity (17%) was observed among adults. Women were more overweight (28%) and obese (23%) as compared to men (14%) and (6%) respectively. About 80% perceived their body weight as being normal but in reality, only 51% were confirmed to be normal. Also, 22% of overweight respondents perceived their body weight as normal and 10.5% of obese people perceived their BMI as being overweight. Nevertheless, 60% perceived an obese person as healthy and rich and 26% perceived a thin person as poor and unhealthy because they associated thinness with illness such as HIV/AIDS. Obesity was significantly related to income, sex, parity of the mother, education levels, perception and employment status at P<0.005. The high prevalence of overweight and obesity, lack of nutrition knowledge and poor perception about body weight may increase the risks of developing non- communicable diseases. Hence, these findings will assist health-related stakeholders to design appropriate interventions to reduce the problems.
Compliance to recommended prevention and management practices among type 2 diabetes patients in Morogoro municipality, Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2024-04-02) Bofu, Hasna; Msollo, Safiness Simon; Mwanri, Akwilina Wendelin
Introduction: Diabetes-related complications are the significant causes of morbidity and mortality among type 2 diabetes patients. The complications can be reduced by practising and maintaining several preventive measures. The present study aimed to assess compliance and factors associated with recommended management practices and prevention of complications among type 2 diabetes patients in selected health facilities in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to May 2023 among 140 patients diagnosed with diabetes for at least three months before the study. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire, which included patients’ characteristics and a previously validated Summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities questionnaire to assess patients' compliance with recommended practices. A multi variable regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with compliance with recommended practices. Results: The mean age of the respondents was59 ±12.08 years and 65% were females. Among 140 patients, 91.4% (n=128) had poor or unsatisfactory self-care practices with an overall mean of 3.81± 2.08 days per week for diabetes management. The recommended practices with good or satisfactory performance were non-smoking, non-alcohol drinking and prescribed medication. In contrast,unsatisfactory performance was observed for self-monitoring blood glucose and physical activities. Multiple regression analysis showed that co-morbidity (AOR 4.5; 95% CI: 1.14-18.02) and being employed (AOR 4.4; 95% CI:1.25-15.44) independently predict self-care practices. Conclusion and recommendation: Compliance with self-monitoring of blood glucose, physical exercise and dietary practices were found to be low among type 2 diabetes patients, which could increase the risk of complications. Nutritional and lifestyle counselling and the use of peer groups should be emphasized to improve compliance with recommended practices.
Prevalence, knowledge and practices on prevention and management of overweight and obesity among adults in Dodoma City, Tanzania
(PLOS ONE, 2024-01-30) Msollo, Safiness Simon; Shausi, Gosbert Lukenku; Mwanri, Akwilina Wendelin
Overweight/obesity is increasing leading to high rates of non-communicable diseases. The study aimed to assess the prevalence, knowledge and practices on prevention and management of overweight/obesity among adults in Dodoma region. Methodology A cross- sectional research was conducted among 313 randomly selected adults aged 25– 65 years. Face to face interviews were conducted to obtain demographic information, knowledge on preventing and managing overweight/obesity using a pre-tested questionnaire. Weight and height were measured following standard procedures and nutrition status was categorized using WHO criteria. Dietary intake was assessed using qualitative 24 hours recall to obtain dietary diversity score. Data was analyzed using the SPSS™ Version 20 to obtain descriptive and inferential statistics. Results About 62.6% (n = 196) of the participants were females. The overall prevalence of overweight/obesity was 59.7% (n = 186) of which 28% (n = 88) were overweight and 31.3% (n = 98) obese. Obesity was three times higher among females (41.8% vs 13.7%) than males. Overweight/obesity was positively associated with female sex (Adjusted OR 2.34; 95%CI: 1.235–4.68; p = 0.001), low knowledge (Adjusted OR 2.15; 95%CI: 1.22–3.81; p = 0.008) and negatively associated with dietary diversity score (Adjusted OR 0. 452; 95%CI: 0.199– 1.87; p = 0.03). About 76% of respondents reported that overweight/obesity is a result of consuming high energy (38.8%; n = 92) and high fat foods (27%; n = 63). More than half of the respondents reported to be insensitive with kind of foods they consume and for those who were sensitive, 64% do so to avoid diseases. Furthermore, 60% control their weight by doing physical exercises while 18% by both physical exercises and diet management. However, about 43% did not know foods exposing individuals to health problems. Conclusion and recommendations High prevalence of overweight/obesity was observed and significantly associated with female sex, low dietary diversity and knowledge on overweight/obesity prevention. This creates a need to improve knowledge on prevention of overweight/obesity.
Dietary diversity and anthropometric status of students at universities in Dodoma and Morogoro Regions, Tanzania
(AJOL, 2024-04) Muhimbula Happiness; Mgetta Neema John
Background: Young adulthood is a transitional period that provides an opportunity to influence immediate and future eating behavior and good nutritional status. As diets evolve during young adulthood due to changes in circumstances and the introduction of new influences, young adults are a significant population group that influences future eating behaviours and prevents the development of NCDS. There is scanty information on the relationship between dietary diversity and the nutritional status of university students in Tanzania. This study aimed to find the synergy between university students' anthropometric status and dietary diversity in Morogoro and Dodoma regions of Tanzania. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 247 University students in Morogoro and Dodoma regions (130 from Mzumbe University and 117 from Saint John’s University) respectively. The two Universities were purposively selected from each region. Data on Dietary diversity was collected using food groups from DDS to obtain the dietary score of each student. Anthropometric measures such as weight, height and waist circumference were done to obtain the anthropometric status of the University students. Results: The descriptive cross-sectional study involved 247 University students. In comparative chi-square analysis, the association was found among different socio-demographic characteristics of the University students. The p-value < 0.05 was used to determine the association among the variables. Conclusion: In conclusion, university students are a vulnerable group in developing obesity/overweight due to the transitional stage. Being overweight and obese was associated with being female, increased age and being married. High dietary diversity was also linked with abdominal obesity. Factors that can help describe and understand the anthropometric status of university students have also been identified. These include years of study, religion, and university location. Therefore, efforts to adopt good lifestyle behaviours should be sensitized amongst this sub-population to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases in the long run.
Drivers of millet consumption among school aged children in Central Tanzania
(2021-08) Chande Monica; Muhimbula Happiness; Mremi Ruth; Muzanila Yasinta C.; Kumwenda Nelson C; Msuya John; Msere Harry; Bekunda Mateete; Okori Patrick; Gichohi-Wainaina Wanjiku N.
Background: Iron and zinc deficiency are common public health problems in low-income countries largely due to poor consumption of iron and zinc rich foods. It has previously been observed that 57% of school aged children (SAC) in Tanzania suffer from anemia. In addition, estimates indicate that over 25% of the population have inadequate zinc intake. Pearl millet is an example of a nutrient dense, resilient cereal crop, that can be promoted to diversify diets and combat iron and zinc deficiency. This study overall aim was to increase pearl millet consumption among school aged (5 – 12 years) children. As part of the study, we investigated, the drivers of food choice relating to pearl millet consumption. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional study of randomly selected households in Kongwa district, Dodoma region of Tanzania. In total, 128 women of reproductive age (20 – 49 years) were randomly selected for the study. A study questionnaire consisting of 66 items, was developed and validated. The constructs in the questionnaire were categorized in two groups: internal and external factors. Respondents were asked to indicate their level of agreement or disagreement with statements read to them by interviewers. The scores on intention and behavior constructs were based on the number of times caregivers intended to, or had fed their school going children with pearl millet in the referent month. Intention was considered high if it was higher than the median intention score of the group, and low if it was equal to or lower than the median scores. Correlations and multiple linear regressions were performed to measure association between constructs and to identify predictive constructs. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for score comparison. Results: There was a significant difference between intention and behavior among those who did not consume pearl millet (P = 0.003), and those who consumed pearl millet two or more times a week, in the same month (P = 0.01). Knowledge was significantly correlated with behavior identity (ρ = 0.58, P = 0.001), while health behavior identity was significantly correlated with intention (ρ = 0.31, P = 0.001). Intention of caregivers was significantly and positively correlated (ρ = 0.44, P = 0.001) with and predicted consumption of pearl millet (ρ = 0.87, P = 0.067). Conclusion: Increasing knowledge or awareness on nutritional benefits of pearl millet among caregivers may increase consumption of pearl millet by children of school going age.
Overweight and obesity among adults in Same District, Tanzania
(AJOL, 2016) Msollo, S. S.; Chivaghula T. J.; Muhimbula H. S.; Krawinkel M.; Kinabo J.
Overweight and obesity are malnutrition which needs great attention due to their health consequences. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 362 adults aged 25-55 years in 2012 to examine the prevalence of overweight, obesity and risk factors through; assessing nutritional status, dietary intake and physical activities in lowland and highland areas of Same District, Kilimanjaro Region. Demographic, dietary intake and physical activity were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Weight, height, waist and hip circumferences were determined using standard WHO procedures. Data were analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions version 16, excels and NutriSurvey 2007 program. The prevalence of overweight was 23% and obesity 17%. Women were more than 4 times likely to be overweight and obese compared to men (OR 5.53, 95% CI: 3.11 – 9.82). Lowland had high prevalence of overweight and obesity compared to highland areas (OR 2.034, 95% CI: 1.138-2.952). About 33% of lowland subjects had excess energy intake compared to 23% of highland (p=0.050). Positive energy balance was significantly associated with overweight and obesity (OR 1.12, 95% CI: 0.66 – 1.91). The mean Physical Activity Level for highland was 2.2 compared to 1.87 of lowland areas (p<0.05). Overweight and obesity was significantly related to income, sex, residence, education, farming technology, carrying produce, occupation, employment, energy balance and age (P<0.005). The high prevalence of overweight and obesity especially in lowland may be due to physical activities and energy intake which are controllable. These findings will assist health stakeholders to allow design of appropriate interventions to reduce the problems
Determinants of infant nutrition status in rural farming households before and after harvest
(WILEY, 2019-04-06) Muhimbula Happiness; Kinabo Joyce; O'Sullivan Aifric
Infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices determine infant growth, develop- ment and health. Despite global recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months, adherence rates are low worldwide for different reasons, largely dependent on environment. In low‐income countries, inappropriate IYCF leads to poor nutrition status. This study examined IYCF practices and nutrition outcomes in rural farming households in Tanzania before and after harvest. Mothers and their infants were recruited from two regions in Tanzania. Demographics, health status, IYCF practices, anthropometrics and haemoglobin were measured; preharvest and postharvest. Regression analysis modelled the relationship between IYCF and nutrition outcomes. Despite high rates of breastfeeding a large proportion did not meet early initiation of breastfeeding and minimum acceptable diet standards. Undernutrition was high with 30–40% of infants classified as stunted depending on season, and the majority (81%) were anaemic. Early initiation of breastfeeding was associated with higher Length‐ for‐age z‐score and weight‐for‐age z‐score and lower risk of stunting and under- weight (p < 0.05). The introduction of fluids other than breast milk in the first 3 days after birth was associated with lower weight‐for‐age z‐score and increased under- weight (p < 0.05). Maternal age and height were strongly and positively associated with child anthropometrics. Findings confirm the importance of early infant feeding practices for growth and development and emphasize the significance of mother's nutrition status in relation to infant health. Future interventions should focus on improving maternal nutrition status before, during and after pregnancy as well as edu- cating and supporting mothers to adopt appropriate infant feeding including breastfeeding practices for the prevention of undernutrition.
Drivers of pigeon pea consumption among school-aged children in Central Tanzania
(Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2022-01-03) Gichohi-Wainaina Wanjiku N.; Mremi Ruth; Chande Monica; Msuya John M.; Kumwenda Nelson C.; Muzanila Yasinta C.; Msere Harry; Muhimbula Happiness; Bekunda Mateete; Okori Patrick
Background: Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) and iron deficiencies (ID) are of major public health concern in Tanzania including among school-aged children. PEM and ID in early childhood have serious, long-term consequences because they impede motor, sensory, social and emotional development, growth retardation, poor cognitive development, learning disability of children, lowered resistance to infectious diseases, and reduced physical work capacity. The objective of this study was to elucidate the drivers of pigeon pea consumption among school-aged children in Dodoma district, Central Tanzania. Understanding these drivers would be useful in promoting pigeon pea consumption among school-aged children as one of the strategies to increase dietary protein and iron intake. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study in which data were collected using a questionnaire based on a combination of the Theory of Planned Behavior and Health Belief Model. The data were collected from caregivers (n = 138) in four villages in Kongwa district, Dodoma region, Central Tanzania. We used correlations and multiple regressions to assess associations between constructs and identify predictive constructs. Mann–Whitney U tests were used for score comparisons with a significant p-value set at <0.10. Results: Health value was significantly correlated with health behavior identity (r s = 0.63, p < 0.001) and also significantly predicted health behavior identity (r s = 0.49, p = 0.001). The constructs cues to action and control belief were significantly associated with intention (β = −0.41, p = 0.059 and β = 0.06, p = 0.019 respectively). Finally, we observed that intention was a significant predictor of behavior (β = 1.38, p = 0.001). We also observed a significant negative interaction between perceived barriers and intention to consume pigeon pea (β = −0.04, p = 0.006), indicating that perceived barriers limit intention to consume pigeon pea. Conclusion and Implication: Our findings indicate that when the caregiver places increased importance on preventing her school-aged child from being iron or protein deficient or indeed anemic (health value), it results in a positive evaluation of the effectiveness of giving pigeon pea to address these nutrient deficiencies. Programs and efforts aimed at promoting pigeon pea consumption should focus on educating caregivers on iron and protein deficiency and the role that pigeon pea could play in addressing these. However, perceived barriers such as pest infestation during storage need to be addressed to increase pigeon pea consumption. The involvement of post-harvest management specialists is therefore crucial. Along with this, increasing productivity and crop management is also crucial to ensure year-round affordable supply of pigeon pea.
Determinants of child undernutrition in Tanzania: agriculture and season perspective: a review
(Science Publishing Group, 2024-01-08) Muhimbula, Happiness Samuel
The causes of undernutrition are known to be complex and interrelated which need responses and solutions from different sectors to effectively design proper nutrition interventions. The UNICEF conceptual framework is a useful tool for understanding the causes of undernutrition and serves as a guide for assessing and analysing the causes, particularly among children in developing countries. Identifying determinants of child nutrition status is a necessary step in designing interventions, policies and programme that can support the scaling up of nutrition. This review scrutinizes undernutrition and its determinants based on the UNICEF conceptual framework on malnutrition. Poor feeding practices and characteristic of complementary foods were observed as immediate causes while household’s food insecurity, environmental factors such as agricultural practices and seasonal influences as underlying determinants particularly in rural households. The highlight from this review suggests that seasons had significant impact on both immediate and underlying determinants of undernutrition and therefore intervention to improve nutrition status should consider variation in agriculture seasons. Lastly, multicomponent interventions focusing on agricultural interventions and practices that are affecting immediate changes in nutrition status among infants and young children are emphasized. Future attempt to improve children nutrition status in rural households should be multicomponent addressing nutrition sensitives farming practices including rural livestock intensification, poverty alleviation and considering agricultural seasons in all planning.
Awareness on type 2 diabetes mellitus does not necessarily translate to a better knowledge and practices on prevention and management among adults
(AJOL, 2023) Msollo, S.S; Shausi, G.L.; Mwanri, A.W.
The prevalence of diet-related non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes is on the rise in Tanzania. This creates a need to explore knowledge on prevention and management for designing appropriate interventions. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, knowledge and practices on prevention and management of type 2 diabetes among adults in urban areas of Dodoma region. This cross-sectional study involved 313 randomly selected adults. A pre-tested questionnaire adapted from the Tanzania STEPS SURVEY was administered through face-to- face interviews. Fasting blood capillary was tested using Gluco-plusTM. Sixty three percent were females and 53.6% (n=168) completed primary school. About 11% (n=35) had diabetes and 23% (n=72) pre-diabetes of which 82% (n=88) were undiagnosed before this study. About 60% (n=188) knows that diabetes can be prevented whereby 34% (n=64) and 21.3% (n=40) mentioned preventive measures to be physical activities and eating balanced diet respectively. Knowledge was positively associated with education level (AOR 2.05, 95% CI: 1.57-3.25) and female sex (AOR 1.76, 95% CI: 1.08-2.87). Half of the respondents did not know how to manage diabetes; 46% (n=70) mentioned diet as the only management strategy while 24% (n=36) mentioned physical activity. Furthermore, all participants were aware of type 2 diabetes existence of which 48% (n=150) reported it to be a consequence of overweight/obesity. However, about 89% (n=278) were unaware of gestational diabetes. Although pre-diabetes and diabetes rate was high, majorities were undiagnosed before the study and there was limited knowledge on prevention and management of diabetes creating a need for public education.
Textural, cooking quality and sensory acceptability of noodles incorporated with Moringa Leaf and sardine powders
(European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety/ SSRN, 2023) Mpalanzi, Victoria Thobias; Chaula, Davis Naboth; Wenaty, Alex
Noodles with varying percentages of wheat flour, moringa leaf and Sardine powders were developed and tested for texture, cooking quality, and sensory qualities. Various formulations were used to make the noodle samples. Noodles with moringa leaf powder were developed using in the following wheat and Moringa proportions in percentage: 99.6:0.4 (WM1), 99.2:0.8 (WM2) and 99:1 (WM3). Noodle samples containing sardine powder were created in the following ratios: 95:5 (WS1), 90:10 (WS2), 85:15 (WS3), and 100:0 wheat flour. Textural qualities of the noodle samples were measured, including hardness, cohesiveness, springiness and adhesiveness. The inclusion of moringa leaf powder and sardine powder resulted in a considerable reduction in hardness and cohesiveness when compared to the wheat control. The noodles became softer and less cohesive as the concentration of moringa leaf powder or sardine powder increased. The noodle samples' cooking loss, volume increase and water absorption were also measured. Higher concentrations of moringa leaf powder or sardine powder resulted in greater cooking loss as well as lower volume and water absorption. This implies that the inclusion of these powders altered the texture and water-holding capacity of the noodles. Additionally, sensory evaluations were performed to determine the acceptability of the developed noodles in terms of color, aroma, texture, taste and overall acceptability. The results revealed that when the concentration of moringa leaf powder or sardine powder increased the sensory properties of the noodles samples were altered. Lower concentrations of these powders were related with greater acceptance scores in general. Specific characteristics of the noodles-, such as color, aroma, saltiness and hardness were evaluated using quantitative descriptive analysis. The results showed that adding moringa leaf powder and sardine powders altered these properties with larger concentrations causing more noticeable changes.
Changes in fatty acids during storage of artisanal-processed freshwater sardines (Rastrineobola argentea)
(WILEY, 2023) Chaula, Davis; Jacobsen, Charlotte; Laswai, Henry S.; Chove, Bernard Elias; Dalsgaard, Anders; Mdegela, Robinson; Hyldig, Grethe
For ages, indigenous small fish species have been important in food and nutritional security of poor communities in low income countries. Freshwater fish, in particu- lar fatty fish species are attracting a great attention because they are good sources of health promoting long chain omega-3 fatty acids. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3), Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, C22:5n-3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5n-3) are the main omega-3 PUFAs known to confer health benefits in humans if consumed in required amounts. While nutritionally valued, omega-3 PUFAs in fish are susceptible to oxidative damage during processing, transportation and subsequent storage. Lake Victoria sardines (Rastrineobola argentea), are rich source of chemically unstable omega-3 fatty acids DHA, DPA and EPA. Traditionally, sardines are pre- served by sun drying, deep frying and smoking. Sardine products are transported, stored and marketed at ambient temperatures. Generally, uncontrolled and higher temperatures are known to increase vulnerability of polyunsaturated fatty acids to oxidation which in turn results into loss of nutritional and sensory qualities. This study investigated changes of fat acids in sun dried, deep fried and smoked sardines during storage. Lipolysis and the progressive hydroperoxides formation were monitored by free fatty acids (FFAs) and peroxide value (PV) respectively. None volatile secondary products of lipid oxidation were measured by thiobabituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography with a flameionization de- tector (GC-FID). Deep fried sardines maintained the lowest and apparently stable PV, TBARS and FFAs. Proportions of saturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids decreased with time while that of monounsaturated fatty acids increased. Omega-3 fatty acids EPA, DPA and DHA decreased with increase in storage time. In 21 days of storage, DHA was oxidized beyond detectable levels in all sardine products. Gradual increase in FFAs in sun dried sardines was suggestive of lipid hydrolysis induced by enzymes.
Sensory properties and consumer acceptability of nutrient dense porridge from locally available foods for infants in Tanzania
(2016) Marcel, M.; Turyashemererwa, F; Mukisa, I; Mongi, R
Childhood under nutrition during the first two years of life has been associated with irreversible harm and is linked to higher rates of morbidity, mortality, impaired cognitive ability and poor school performance in children. Low nutrient dense complementary foods are amongst the main causes of childhood malnutrition in developing countries. Thus, the use of locally available nutrient dense foods to improve infants nutrition is of considerable importance. A study to develop and assess sensory properties and consumer acceptability of nutrient dense porridge form locally available foods for infants in Tanzania was carried out in Morogoro region. Five formulations each containing soybeans, amaranth grains, pumpkin seeds and orange fleshed sweet potatoes (SAPO1-SAPO5) at different ratios were developed. The five developed formulations and two control samples were subjected to quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) and consumer acceptability tests.With exception of oiliness, significant differences (p≤0.05) were observed between samples tested for all attributes. The formulated samples had significantly higher mean intensity scores of 5.4± 1.67-5.6± 1.67 for aroma, 5.1 ±1.46 -7.0 ±1.44 for hue, 5.3±1.75 - 5.6±1.63 for sweetness and 4.2±1.85-4.6±1.98 for oiliness than control samples. Control samples had higher texture values than formulated samples. Consumer groups showed different acceptability for control and formulations. Mothers preffered control samples to formulations contrary to students who preferred formulated samples to control samples. Furthermore, all formulations had higher scores in aroma, sweetness and oiliness compared to control groups, thickness and grittiness were higher in control groups than formulations, while SAPO 3, 4 and 5 had higher scores of color hue than other samples. SAPO5 was the most accepted formulation by both mothers and students. This suggests that its ingredients ratio produced a most accepted product and hence it can be recommended for adoption.

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