Food Consumption Patterns in Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
Author Information
Author(s): Nesbitt Andrea, Majowicz Shannon, Finley Rita, Pollari Frank, Pintar Katarina, Marshall Barbara, Cook Angela, Sargeant Jan, Wilson Jeff, Ribble Carl, Knowles Lewinda
Primary Institution: University of Guelph
Hypothesis
What are the food consumption patterns in a Canadian-based population from a food safety perspective?
Conclusion
The study provides baseline data on actual food intake, which is useful for public health professionals and food safety risk assessors.
Supporting Evidence
- Certain food items were consumed more than others among the same food groups.
- Consumption of many food items varied by gender and age.
- High-risk foods were more likely to be consumed by males and elderly individuals.
- Most households prepared and consumed meals at home.
Takeaway
This study looked at what people in Waterloo eat and how they prepare their food, showing that many meals are made at home.
Methodology
A cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted with 2,332 randomly selected residents, using a 7-day dietary recall method.
Potential Biases
Response bias may have occurred due to recall issues and the use of proxy respondents.
Limitations
The study may not fully reflect usual consumption patterns as it focused on raw food items and was conducted in one season.
Participant Demographics
Respondents were older, more likely to be female, and had higher education and income levels compared to the general population.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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