Frequency of consumption of fruits and vegetables among adults resident in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Fruits and Vegetables have protective effects against several types of cancers and cardiovascular diseases. Low consumption of fruits and vegetables have been recognized as the sixth major risk factor for mortality globally

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the frequency of consumption of fruits and vegetables among adult resident in Oredo local government area of Edo state Nigeria

Methods: the study was a cross-sectional survey with a sample size of 1348 adults (21years and above) conveniently sampled based on their willingness to participate. A validated structured and pre-tested questionnaire was used in collection of data: on the demographic characteristics of the respondents, frequency of consumption of vegetables and fruits as well as factors that determines their choices. Data was presented using descriptive statistics and analyzed using inferential statistics.

Results: The result shows that about half (46.7%) of the respondents were in the age range of 29-39 years with (63.4%) married and (31.2%) University graduates. Common fruits and vegetables consumed by the respondent include bananas (20.4%), pawpaw (15.5%), oranges (15.3%) and okro (17%), garden eggs (14%) and tomatoes (13%). About 53% utilized vegetables daily, while only 10% utilized fruits daily. Availability (36%), taste (15.7%) and attractiveness (14.4%) were factors that determined their choices. No significant difference was observed in the consumption pattern of the male and female respondent.

Conclusion: utilization pattern of fruits was considerably low among adults in Oredo local government of Edo State while that of vegetables was fairly adequate.

Keywords: Frequency, Consumption, Fruits and Vegetables