Pattern of Food Procurement among Families with Varying Size and Ses

Abstract

Food procurement pattern is a rough indicator of food consumption in families. Socio economic status is the major affect or component while family size alters the per capita food availability.

Objective: To study the effect of Socio economic status (SES) and family size on food procurement. 

Methodology: 350 Households each from Karkala and Moodbidri taluks (total 700), were selected. Cluster sampling was adopted. Demographic information of the households and food procurement pattern was obtained through standardised questionnaires.

Results: Family size varied from <4 to more than 8 members, 90% Households had < 6 family members. Percent of households in low, middle and high SES were, 50-55%, 37-40% and 8-10% respectively. Pattern of food procurement was essentially similar across the SES groups as well as with different family size except for flesh foods.

Conclusion: The procurement pattern was essentially similar regardless of SES. Family size has no influence. Low SES consumed non vegetarian foods less frequently.