Nutritional profile of Indian rural preschoolers

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to report on the nutritional profile of preschool children of 4 to 5 years.

Design/methodology/approach

The data on raw food intake of the randomly selected subjects were collected by 24hr recall method for three consecutive days and the mean was taken. Daily intake of various nutrients by each subject was calculated using MSU Nutriguide and this was further compared with RDA recommended by ICMR to assess the adequacy of their diets.

Findings

The analysis revealed that the intake of protein, fat, calcium, thiamine, folic acid and vitamin B₁₂ was more than or equal to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) as recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research, while the intake of energy, iron, vitamin C, niacin and riboflavin was less than their respective RDAs. The intake of β‐carotene was marginally adequate. Boys consumed significantly more amount of energy and folic acid than girls.

Research limitations/implications

A large number of samples could not be taken owing to practical difficulties.

Originality/value

The study is original and innovative. The findings are useful for the policy makers and nutritionists who have to implement supplementary feeding programmes.

Citation

Khetarpaul, M. and Khetarpaul, N. (2005), "Nutritional profile of Indian rural preschoolers", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 35 No. 6, pp. 428-435. https://doi.org/10.1108/00346650510633837