Food consumption patterns of heterogeneous adults from non- specific locations in three East African cities: a qualitative comparative study
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Date
2024
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Ajfand
Abstract
This qualitative study explores consumption patterns and food preferences across three
East African cities through focus group discussions involving 70 adult men and women.
The study reveals commonalities in food sources and staple foods among participants
in Kampala, Nairobi, and Dar es Salaam. While most foods prepared at home were
sourced from local markets, street vendors, and general shops, supermarkets played a
significant role in introducing new processed and nutritious products. The rise in
supermarket usage in East African cities has been associated with contemporary health
issues such as obesity, prompting concerns about food quality from other sources like
street vendors and traditional markets. Participants across the cities showed a
preference for energy-dense staple foods like rice, Ugali, cassava, and beans, often
accompanied by meat, vegetables, or fish. Differences in staple foods and eating
preferences were observed, with Kampala offering a wider variety of options compared
to Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. The consumption of meat and meat products was
influenced by participants' income levels, with affordability playing a significant role in
food choices. Street foods emerged as a common feature in all three cities, with unique
offerings like Chips Mayai in Dar es Salaam, Kikomando and Rolex in Kampala, and
Mutura in Nairobi. Participants' food choices were influenced by factors such as
affordability, accessibility, taste preferences, and cultural norms. The study also
highlighted the importance of urban agriculture in some households, emphasizing self-
sustainability in food production. Overall, the study provides insights into the diverse
food consumption trends and patterns in East African urban settings, shedding light on
the role of different food sources, staple foods, and street foods in shaping dietary
practices among residents. Further research is needed to explore the impact of these
consumption patterns on health outcomes and to develop strategies for promoting
healthy eating habits in urban populations.
Description
Afr. J. Food Agric. Nutr. Dev. 2024; 24(9): 24432-24447
Keywords
Consumption patterns, Meal frequency, Fruits, Vegetables, Food preference, East Africa
Citation
https://doi.org/10.18697/ajfand.134.24535