Exploring Food Literacy Domains in an Adult Samoan Population

Grace Kammholz, Dana Craven, Ramona Boodoosingh, Safua Akeli Amaama, Jyothi Abraham and Sarah Burkhart
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Grace Kammholz: School of Health and Behavioural Sciences ML41, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia
Dana Craven: School of Health and Behavioural Sciences ML41, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia
Ramona Boodoosingh: Faculty of Health Science, School of Nursing, National University of Samoa, Apia, Western Samoa
Safua Akeli Amaama: Centre for Samoan Studies, National University of Samoa, Apia, Western Samoa
Jyothi Abraham: Faculty of Health Science, School of Nursing, National University of Samoa, Apia, Western Samoa
Sarah Burkhart: School of Health and Behavioural Sciences ML41, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 7, 1-14

Abstract: Samoan food systems have undergone a dramatic nutrition transition, with dietary patterns changing concurrently with increased rates of obesity and non-communicable disease. Whilst policy action and environmental interventions play an important role in improving access to and consumption of healthy food, the success of these relies on a greater understanding of individuals’ food knowledge and behaviours. This study aimed to explore these behaviours using the construct of food literacy in an adult Samoan population. A cross-sectional interviewer-administered questionnaire of a convenience sample of 150 adult Samoans (≥20 years) assessed the four domains of food literacy: plan/manage, select, prepare, and eat. Participants generally plan to include healthy food (87%) and budget money for food (87%). The majority know where to find nutrition labels (68%), of which 43% always use them to inform their food choices. Participants were mostly confident with cooking skills, although food storage practices require further investigation. Over 90% agreed or strongly agreed that food impacts health, although understanding of the Pacific Guidelines for Healthy Living was lacking. Understanding the ability of Samoans to plan/manage, select, prepare, and eat food is an important consideration for future interventions aiming to assist this population in navigating the modern-day food system.

Keywords: Pacific Islands; food knowledge; food skills; food behaviours, food choice; nutrition; health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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