Self-reported meal planning practices among households in the Tshwane North area, Gauteng

Meal planning is crucial for households to improve food choices and promote healthier eating habits.

The study aims to assess meal planning practices in households in Tshwane area, Gauteng province.

The study was conducted in households, north of Tshwane, Gauteng province.

A survey questionnaire was administered to 368 households. Descriptive statistics were analysed, and Pearson's chi-square test was used to assess the relationship between categorical variables. The Spearman-Rho correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between variables. A p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant and a Spearman Rho correlation coefficient (r) ≥ 0.25 signified a positive relationship.

Sixty-one per cent of the participants regarded meal planning as important. A total of 137 participants (37%) reported that they planned their meals before cooking and 64% (n = 235) never used recipes. There was statistical significance (p <0.05) between the options considered when buying food and the age of the participants. A positive association (p < 0.05) between the options considered when planning meals and employment status were obtained. The Spearman's Rho correlation coefficient showed a positive relationship between the options considered when planning meals and buying groceries (r = 0.377, p < 0.001).

Meal planning was considered important by participants but was not fully practised in households. Therefore, interventions through practical sessions are recommended to improve household's meal planning and meal preparation practices, including household's cooking skills.

Community-based nutrition education intervention strategies will empower households to opt for healthier meals through meal planning.