Factors Influencing the Consumption of Seafood Among Young Children in Perth (2005-2007)
Investigators
- Dr Alexandra McManus
- Ms Sharyn Burns
- Professor Peter Howat
Aim
To investigate the factors that influence the consumption of fish and seafood among 4-6 year old children in the Perth metropolitan area.
Abstract:
This study investigated the factors that influence the consumption of seafood among young children in the Perth metropolitan area. Focus groups were conducted with mothers of young children to gain insights into the enablers and barriers to regular seafood consumption in children, and the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of their mothers to including seafood as a regular part of their children���s diet. Findings indicated that all children had tried fish and seafood products, with some being exposed to a wide variety from an early age. Across focus groups, several dominant factors were apparent in influencing the frequency and type of seafood purchased and consumed. Perceived cost, freshness, availability/accessibility, and the level of confidence to prepare and cook a meal to suit all family members were significant determinants of whether these products featured regularly on the household menu. The influence of others in the family, particularly their husband or partner, also tended to impact upon the likelihood of serving fish and seafood, and the types of products mothers were willing to serve. Findings from this qualitative study form the first phase in a proposed longitudinal research project that aims to develop, implement and evaluate a comprehensive intervention encouraging regular, seafood consumption.
Key Outcomes
Establishing regular fish consumption as a healthy, cost effective option for young children has the potential to impact upon their short and long-term health. It also compliments the existing nutritional messages that relate to fruit and vegetables as essential to a healthy diet and lifestyle.
This formative study sought to investigate the factors that influence consumption of fish and seafood among pre-primary and Year One school children in the Perth metropolitan area. Mothers of children aged between four and six years from Curtin University and two local playgroups formed seven focus groups. The results revealed several dominant factors actively influence the frequency and type of seafood purchased and consumed in Perth households. Perceived cost, freshness, availability/accessibility, and the level of confidence to prepare and cook a meal to suit all family members were significant determinants of whether these products featured regularly on the household menu. The influence of others in the family, particularly husband or partner, also tended to impact upon the likelihood of serving fish and seafood, and the types of products mothers were willing to serve.
Findings from this qualitative study form the first phase in a proposed longitudinal research project that aims to develop, implement and evaluate a comprehensive school-based resource package encouraging regular, seafood consumption (particularly fish) in primary school-aged children.
Publications & Presentations
Publications
McManus A, Burns SK, Howat PA, Cooper L, Fielder L. Factors influencing the consumption of seafood among young children in Perth: a qualitative study BMC Public Health 2007, 7:119
McManus A, Smith J, Burns S, Howat P, Woodman R. Factors influencing the consumption of seafood among young children in Perth. WA Centre for Health Promotion Research, Curtin University of Technology, Perth, 2005. ISBN 1 74067 438 3.
Presentations
McManus A, Burns S, Howat P. Factors influencing the consumption of seafood in young children. Australian Public Health Association 38th Public Health Association of Australia Annual Conference Reality Check Inequities & Health Tackling the Differentials Alice Springs 19-21 September 2007
McManus A, Burns S, Howat P, Woodman R. Factors influencing the consumption of seafood among young children in Perth. 10th International Congress on Obesity 2006. Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Sydney Australia, 3-8 September 2006.