FOOD CONSUMPTION AMONG FAMILIES OF PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN IN SITUATION OF FOOD (IN)SECURITY

Abstract

Objective: To describe the food consumption among families of pre-school children in situation of food (in) security in a rural area. Method: A descriptive study conducted with 200 families of pre-school children treated at a Basic Health Unit of a rural municipality of Fortaleza, State of Ceará, Brazil. Data were collected applying the Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale. Regulations of Resolution 466/2012 were observed. Results: Of the 200 families, 12% were in a food security situation, while 88% were classified as food insecure. A statistically significant association between food insecurity and the consumption of tubers/roots, milk, dairy products, fruit/natural juices, vegetables/salads, meat and fat was found. Conclusion: Based on the observation of the relationship between food insecurity and food consumption among families of pre-school children, we recommend the implementation of food education programs to encourage the adoption of healthy eating habits for the population.