BARRIERS AND FACILITATING FACTORS FOR CONSUMPTION OF ANIMAL-SOURCE FOODS AMONG HOUSEHOLDS OF ETHNIC MINORITY GROUPS IN NORTHERN MOUNTAINOUS VIETNAM
Main Article Content
Abstract
Aims: To identify barriers and facilitators to the consumption of animal-source food (ASF) among ethnic minority households in the Northern mountainous region of Vietnam.
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted from June 2023 to June 2024 in four communes of Mai Son district, Son La province. Data collection included eight focus group discussions with 93 participants and 35 key informant interviews with stakeholders at provincial, district, and commune levels. Thematic analysis was applied to identify barriers and facilitators to ASF consumption among ethnic minority households.
Results: ASF consumption varied by age, physiological status, and ethnic cultural practices. Young children and pregnant/lactating women were prioritized for nutrient-dense foods such as chicken, fish, eggs, and milk, whereas adolescents were strongly influenced by peers and emerging consumption trends. Major barriers to ASF consumption included: (i) high prices and limited affordability; (ii) concerns about food safety, particularly following African swine fever outbreaks; (iii) social norms and dietary taboos, especially during pregnancy and postpartum; (iv) limited supply and difficulties in storage; and (v) inadequate nutrition knowledge. Facilitators included the perceived need to improve nutrition for women and children, preference for easy-to-prepare and home-reared foods, and the availability of locally sourced products.
Conclusion: ASF consumption among ethnic minority households in mountainous areas is constrained by multiple economic, social, and cultural barriers. Interventions should prioritize behavior change communication, economic support to reduce household food expenditure, and improvements in food safety along local supply chains.
Keywords
Animal-source foods, nutrition, dietary diversity, ethnic minorities, Northern Vietnam, Son La.
Article Details
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