Determinants of fortified food consumption among children aged 6-23 months in Isiolo County, Kenya
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Date
2025-05-21
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International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health
Abstract
Background: Micronutrient deficiencies pose a significant public health challenge among young children in Kenya,
particularly in arid regions like Isiolo County. Fortified foods are a cost-effective intervention, yet their consumption
remains low. This study examines the role of socio-economic status, availability, and caregiver knowledge in fortified
food consumption.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Oldonyiro and Ngaremara wards, Isiolo County, from June to
August 2022, with 272 caregiver-child pairs. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, focus group
discussions, and key informant interviews. Logistic regression analyzed associations between socio-economic status,
availability, caregiver knowledge, and fortified food consumption at p<0.05.
Results: Non-fortified maize flour (100%) and vegetable oil (96.3%) were consumed daily, while fortified versions
were consumed twice weekly by 36% and 47% of children, respectively. Higher socio-economic status (OR=1.729,
p=0.0034), better caregiver knowledge (OR=1.227, p=0.0089), and greater availability (OR=1.311, p=0.015)
significantly increased fortified food consumption. Only 20.2% of caregivers were knowledgeable about fortification,
and fortified foods were less available in rural areas.
Conclusions: Socio-economic status, caregiver knowledge, and availability are critical drivers of fortified food
consumption. Public health interventions should prioritize awareness campaigns, improve market access, and address
economic barriers to enhance uptake
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Mkungo, E. C., Chege, P., & Munga, J. (2025). Determinants of fortified food consumption among children aged 6–23 months in Isiolo County, Kenya. International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, 12(6), 2508–2513. https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph202513 (doi.org in Bing)