Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences
Open Access
ISSN: 2155-9600
ISSN: 2155-9600
Objective: To evaluate behavioral factors those significantly determine intentions to consume cassava among adults in southern Zambia.
Design: A cross-sectional study with a multistage design based on the theory of planned behavior and health belief models. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire targeting heads of households between February and April, 2008.
Setting: The study was performed in three fragile food-deficit prone districts of Kalomo, Siavonga, and Namwala located in southern Zambia.
Participants: A total of 298 (150 males and 148 females) heads of households aged between 15 and 49 years were interviewed from the initially 304 that were selected proportional to district population sizes.
Main outcome measures: Same variables explained cassava consumption behavior intention in all three districts and among both male and female respondents. Possessing knowledge and an understanding of the health value of cassava were the best predictors for intention to consume cassava.
Conclusion: To effectively promote cassava consumption, nutrition education should focus on increasing the knowledge levels of the adult population. This knowledge should be on the health values of cassava.