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African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development
Rural Outreach Program
ISSN: 1684-5358 EISSN: 1684-5358
Vol. 21, No. 4, 2021, pp. 17891-17906
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Bioline Code: nd21050
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, Vol. 21, No. 4, 2021, pp. 17891-17906
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VEGETABLE CONSUMPTION PATTERNS OF URBAN FARMERS IN COMMUNITY GARDENS IN EMFULENI LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, GAUTENG PROVINCE OF SOUTH AFRICA
Modibedi, TP; Maake, MMS; Masekoameng, MR; Tekana, SS & Oduniyi, OS
Abstract
Lack of adequate vegetable consumption may contribute to micronutrient deficiency
especially in developing countries where low intake of nutrient-dense animal products
is common. Despite growing evidence that vegetable consumption is of great
importance, only about 25.6% South Africans consume sufficient vegetables per day.
This research was carried out to investigate the vegetable consumption patterns of
urban farmers in Emfuleni Local Municipality, South Africa. The objectives were to
determine reasons why urban farmers consume vegetables, vegetable intake patterns in
a 24-hour recall, and factors influencing vegetable consumption patterns. The study
was conducted in six (6) large townships of Emfuleni Local Municipality using a
quantitative research approach and survey design. A sample of 254 urban farmers were
randomly selected from 30 urban community gardens with a population of 418 farmers.
Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured survey
questionnaire. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Program for the Social
Sciences Version 23. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and ordered
logistic regression model were explored to analyse the data. The results revealed that
96.1% and 93.3% of farmers in urban community gardens consumed vegetables as a
relish and salad, respectively. Vegetables were mostly consumed during dinner because
most respondents were physically present in the community gardens during the day.
The results of the factors influencing vegetable consumption patterns showed that out
of 10 independent variables chosen, only three (age group, level of education, and main
source of income) were positive and statistically significant. The study, therefore,
recommends that farmers should include vegetables in all three of their daily meals
(breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Education in the form of training should be provided to
the urban farmers to create awareness in the community about the importance of
vegetable gardens and the consumption of vegetables across all age groups.
Keywords
Urban farmers; community gardens; Gauteng province; vegetable consumption; intake patterns
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