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Exploring Food Literacy Domains in an Adult Samoan Population

Authors :
Dana L. Craven
Jyothi Alex Abraham
Grace Kammholz
Ramona Boodoosingh
Sarah Burkhart
Safua Akeli Amaama
Source :
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Vol 18, Iss 3587, p 3587 (2021), Volume 18, Issue 7
Publication Year :
2021
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2021.

Abstract

Samoan food systems have undergone a dramatic nutrition transition, with dietary patterns changing concurrently with increased rates of obesity and non-communicable disease. Whilst policy action and environmental interventions play an important role in improving access to and consumption of healthy food, the success of these relies on a greater understanding of individuals’ food knowledge and behaviours. This study aimed to explore these behaviours using the construct of food literacy in an adult Samoan population. A cross-sectional interviewer-administered questionnaire of a convenience sample of 150 adult Samoans (≥20 years) assessed the four domains of food literacy: plan/manage, select, prepare, and eat. Participants generally plan to include healthy food (87%) and budget money for food (87%). The majority know where to find nutrition labels (68%), of which 43% always use them to inform their food choices. Participants were mostly confident with cooking skills, although food storage practices require further investigation. Over 90% agreed or strongly agreed that food impacts health, although understanding of the Pacific Guidelines for Healthy Living was lacking. Understanding the ability of Samoans to plan/manage, select, prepare, and eat food is an important consideration for future interventions aiming to assist this population in navigating the modern-day food system.

Details

ISSN :
16604601
Volume :
18
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....51737cd7d7e7a05333fdf0946fca5ea0
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18073587