Awareness of Three Communities about the Nutritional Importance of Animal Source Foods

Abstract

Awareness of three communities (rural non-Samurdhi holders, Samurdhi holders and estate Tamil] about the nutritional importance of animal source foods (ASF) and misconceptions related to them were determined. Knowledge scores of 50 respondents of each community were determined by administrating a questionnaire containing 20 knowledge testing statements. The knowledge score of the whole population was as low as 6.2 out of 20 (34% ). Age and gender had no significant effect on knowledge score. Awareness about the nutritional importance of ASF was significantly different among three communities; rural non Samurdhi holders (9.6), Samurdhi holders (8) and estate Tamil (2.9). It was concluded that knowledge level about nutritional importance of ASF is not at a satisfactory level in all three communities and some misconceptions prevails across all communities. Awareness programs are needed to promote nutritional well being of the society.