Strategies Used by Housewives in Meeting the Food Needs of Families in Edem Community, Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State

Abstract

Background: For the optimum development, survival, growth and good health of family members, foodas an important basic human need is required. Therefore, hunger and malnutrition among members results when their food needs are not met.
Objective: The study investigated the strategies used by housewives in meeting the food needs of families in Edem community, Nsukka L.G.A., Enugu State.
Methods: Descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The study population comprised of 3,257 housewives in Edem community. The sample size was 107 housewives who were selected from the total population using simple random sampling. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data collected were analysed using means and standard deviation.
Result: The findings of this study showed that strategies employed by housewives in meeting the food needs of family members in Edem include, home gardening, buying food in season and bulk purchase among others. In addition, inflation, low income level and harsh weather and climate conditions, are among the economic factors that affect the availability of food items in families. The result also showed
factors that affect the food needs of family which include finance, preference and food in season among others. Major meals consumed by families in Edem community include maize pudding, bean pottage and jollof rice among others.
Conclusion: The nutritional competence of housewives helps them with the knowledge of food in season and in making wise budgets for food items; which in turn helps them to meet the food needs of family members.