Food and Nutrition Bulletin最新文献

AimTo assess food insecurity prevalence among the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) population and to investigate variations by age, race and ethnicity, and gender identity.MethodsData were obtained from the All of Us Research Program, a longitudinal cohort study that includes 34 148 LGBTQ+ participants. Food insecurity prevalence was reported using descriptive analyses, and chi-square tests were performed for comparison between groups.Results6.7% of the LGBTQ+ population was food insecure with wide variance based on gender identity. Transgender participants were more likely to be food insecure than cisgender participants (9.8% vs 6.2%, P < .001). Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) LGBTQ+ participants were more likely to be food insecure than white counterparts (9.5% vs 5.4%, P < .001).ConclusionStandardized language to assess sex and gender identity will improve precision in food insecurity estimates. Wide variations in food insecurity prevalence persist among demographic variables with the highest rates among Black, transgender, and younger participants. Interventions are needed to address food insecurity, especially among BIPOC and transgender populations.SummaryBased on newly data available from over 34 000 LGBTQ+ people, food insecurity impacts groups within the United States differently. Transgender people experience food insecurity at higher levels than cisgender people, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) are impacted by food insecurity at higher levels than white communities.

BackgroundSchool food environments may play an important role in shaping children's dietary habits, health, and nutrition.ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate associations between the school food environment and nutrition among in-school adolescents in Ghana.MethodsData were collected in Ghana in 2022 in a national nutrition and health survey of adolescents attending junior (JHS) and senior high schools (SHS). Foods observed on campus or reported in the dietary recall were aggregated, a composite Adolescent Dietary Diversity Score (ADDS) was derived, and the proportion achieving minimum dietary diversity was estimated. Multi-level regression models were used to assess associations between a ranked school food environment score (FES) and nutrition outcomes.ResultsThe number of food groups served or available for purchase was 6.2 in JHS and 8.1 in SHS (P-value < .0001). The mean (95% CI) FES was 10.9 (10.1-11.7) at JHS and 14.3 (13.6-14.9) at SHS. ADDS ranged from 4.1 to 4.8 across strata. Higher FES was positively associated with ADDS and minimum dietary diversity among SHS students and negatively associated with anemia in girls and boys. Girls from high FES schools had 24% lower odds of anemia (OR = 0.76; 95% CI = 0.63-0.93) while boys had 46% lower odds (OR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.34-0.84) compared to students in low FES schools.ConclusionsHigher FES was associated with greater dietary diversity among SHS students and lower odds of anemia in girls and boys, suggesting that the school food environment may play a role in determining nutrition outcomes.

BackgroundVitamin A (VA) deficiency affects approximately 15% of preschool-aged children in the Philippines (serum retinol <0.7 μmol/L). Data on school-aged children are lacking.ObjectiveTo characterize intake of VA-rich foods and VA status among school-aged children in 3 areas of the Philippines at high risk of undernutrition.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study, randomly selecting n = 520 children from primary schools in 3 high-risk provinces. We collected data on household characteristics, past-week food intake, and children's weights and heights. Venous blood samples were drawn and analyzed for plasma retinol, C-reactive protein, and α₁-acid glycoprotein.ResultsMost children (96.7%) had consumed preformed VA-rich foods at least once in the prior week, mainly eggs and fortified foods, with a median consumption frequency of 7 times [p25, p75: 4, 12]. While 93.7% had consumed proVA-rich foods-mainly dark green leafy vegetables-the frequency was lower (5 times [2, 9]). Approximately one-quarter took multinutrient supplements (median 600 μg retinol equivalents [400, 1185]). The mean (± SD) plasma retinol concentration was 0.95 ± 0.23 μmol/L. The prevalence of VA deficiency (retinol <0.70 μmol/L) was 13.6% (4.9% adjusted for inflammation), and 59.0% (52.0% adjusted for inflammation) had marginal status (0.70-1.05 μmol/L).ConclusionsThe VA status of school-aged children in high-risk areas was similar to that of preschool-aged children nationally. Despite adjusting for inflammation, most children were classified as having marginal VA status that could be improved by increasing intake of the available preformed and proVA-rich foods in the study area.

BackgroundKenya has shown progress in social, economic, and health indicators over the past 2 decades. Yet, malnutrition remains a critical public health issue. Effective Multisectoral Nutrition Governance (MNG) is an enabling determinant of nutrition ensures that nutrition policies are well-coordinated, adequately funded, and effectively implemented, leading to better nutrition outcomes.ObjectiveOur study assessed the status, evolution, and factors associated with MNG in Kenya using a cross-sectional design at 2 distinct time points (2012 and 2023). The 2 distinct time points provided valuable comparative perspectives allowing for the assessment of progress and trends in MNG allowing further analysis.MethodsThe study targeted 96 government and nongovernmental staff from eligible ministries at the national level. It used a structured closed-ended questionnaire adapted from a validated Nutrition Governance Index.ResultsOur findings reveal an improvement in MNG status, from 58.4% in 2012 to 71.1% in 2023 (P < .01). The 6 MNG domains demonstrated varying performance levels, with mean scores ranging from 3.1 to 4.0 (out of 5). Despite the performance variation, the domains contributed equally to the MNG status. A positive relationship was found between the MNG score and respondent affiliation with the Ministry of Health and the level of prioritization of nutrition in a ministry (P < .05).ConclusionsFurther efforts are needed to strengthen specific MNG domains, particularly nutrition financing, transparency, accountability, and capacity, to ensure progress in tackling malnutrition in Kenya. These findings can inform efforts to enhance MNG strategies to improve nutrition outcomes sustainably in Kenya.

BackgroundThe Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a federal nutrition assistance program aiming to address food insecurity and improve health. Participation varies across marginalized groups (eg, Black, Hispanic, low-income, rural), likely due to WIC access barriers and satisfaction, limiting WIC's impact on health disparities.ObjectiveAssess WIC access and satisfaction across marginalized groups to understand determinants of WIC participation in Missouri, where food insecurity is high (11% overall, 12% Hispanic, 26% Black) and WIC participation low (41%).MethodsThis cross-sectional study used data from the Missouri WIC Experience Survey (April 2022-June 2022). Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression assessed access (eg, clinic wait times, clinic hours, clinic location) and satisfaction (eg, nutrition education, meeting dietary needs, shopping experience) across race/ethnicity, income, and urbanicity.ResultsThe sample (n = 2232) consisted of 69% White, 16% Black, and 8% Hispanic WIC-eligible households. Most had monthly incomes of $4000 or less (69%) and 32% lived in rural areas. Black households had 75% higher odds of experiencing barriers compared to White households. Compared to urban households, rural households experienced 30% lower odds of being satisfied overall with WIC, but 75% higher odds of being satisfied with WIC meeting dietary needs. Hispanic households had 85% higher odds than White households of being satisfied with WIC.ConclusionsFindings offer considerations for addressing WIC access and satisfaction. WIC design and implementation should focus on barriers to access for Black households and improving overall satisfaction with WIC among rural and low-income households.

BackgroundTo prevent micronutrient deficiencies and address the double burden of malnutrition, Benin has implemented Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) and food fortification policies for several years. Despite these efforts, significant micronutrient deficiencies persist, posing a public health problem.ObjectiveThis study aims to identify barriers and facilitators to the implementation of government policies on IYCF and food fortification in Benin.MethodsWe conducted in-depth individual interviews with 23 key national and local stakeholders involved in implementing these policies. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed through a deductive and iterative process based on the study's objective.ResultsStakeholders identified several barriers to policy implementation, including low staff motivation, exacerbated by poor personnel management and lack of recognition. Financial resources are insufficient despite organizational support. Training and awareness among health workers and producers are limited outside UNICEF's intervention areas. Traditional eating habits and cultural resistance impede the adoption of new practices. The monitoring system is complex and ill-equipped, hindering quality control of fortified foods. Facilitators include strong political commitment, partnerships with international nongovernmental organizations, and effective intersectoral collaboration. These partnerships have improved training and community awareness, though gaps remain. The involvement of local producers and professional associations also supports food fortification initiatives.ConclusionNutrition policies in Benin face challenges such as low staff motivation and lack of resources. However, strong political commitment and international partnerships present opportunities to overcome these barriers.Plain language titleStudy of Challenges and Solutions to Improve Food Policies for Babies and Children in Benin.

BackgroundPoor diet quality may contribute to undernutrition, particularly affecting young children from low-income households. Therefore, affordable and healthy local food-based recommendations (FBRs) are needed.ObjectivesThis study aimed to (1) identify problem nutrient(s), (2) identify locally available nutrient-dense food sources that can provide adequate nutrients to meet the recommended dietary intakes of undernourished urban poor children aged 2-5 years, and (3) use linear programming to recommend a daily diet based on the current food patterns that achieves dietary adequacy and meets average food costs for these children.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Seremban, Malaysia. Three-day 24-hour dietary recalls were collected from the mothers (n = 168). Food costs were estimated using market surveys. The FBRs were formulated by linear programming analysis using Optifood software.ResultsFolate was an "absolute problem nutrient" (such a nutrient does not achieve the 100% recommended nutrient intake even upon diet optimization). Full-cream milk, chocolate malted milk, fortified cornflakes, and chicken egg were the common locally available nutrient-dense foods that would provide adequate nutrients to meet the recommended dietary intakes of undernourished urban poor children. The final FBR set would ensure dietary adequacy for 8 to 9 of 11 nutrients at a cost of ringgit Malaysia (RM) 4.80/day (US $1.05/day) and RM6.20/day (US $1.34/day), depending on the age group.ConclusionsInterventions are required to ensure dietary adequacy for undernourished urban poor children under 5 years old. Dietary adequacy could be improved via realistic changes in habitual food consumption practices.

Fluctuations in economic policy often create ripple effects that can significantly impact commodity prices, including those of essential food items, with potential consequences for food security. The 5 emerging nations outlined as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have most recently extended by including 4 new members (Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE) on January 1, 2024. Additionally, Argentina and Saudi Arabia are anticipated to join the group soon. This enlargement will alter the geopolitical scenario, potentially fostering fresh collaboration and competition dynamics. This expansion will reshape the geopolitical landscape, possibly leading to new cooperation and competition dynamics. The core objective of the present work is to measure how economic policy uncertainty asymmetrically influences food prices in the expanded BRICS countries. Previous investigations have primarily relied on panel data methods, often overlooking heterogeneities in the policy uncertainty-food prices nexus across different countries. Conversely, this research applies the Quantile-on-Quantile method, which permits a more exact examination, providing a thorough worldwide overview and specific insights tailored to each country. The results indicate a significant increase in food prices due to economic policy uncertainty throughout different quantile ranges in the chosen economies. These outcomes accentuate the essentiality for policymakers to execute all-inclusive appraisals and effectively manage approaches connected to economic policy uncertainty and food inflation.