Knowledge of nutrition among housewives in three South African ethnic groups

Studies on housewives and other groups in Western populations have revealed: (i) a generally high level of claimed or "perceived' knowledge of nutrition; (ii) a much lower level of accurate knowledge; and (iii) an often unsatisfactory application of correct knowledge. Since little is known of knowledge of nutrition in South African populations. White, Indian and Coloured housewives were questioned by use of a questionnaire similar to that used overseas. While the local populations had a fair knowledge of the identity of most nutritional components, their knowledge about good sources of these components and of foods commendable for body building, energy, and slimming, or of those which promote fattening, was only moderately satisfactory. Misconceptions were similar to those reported elsewhere. Factors having a bearing on inadequate or incorrect information are discussed, as is the extent to which this may affect health and disease patterns in Third World and Western populations. Factors detrimental to progress are differences of opinion among nutrition experts and insufficient knowledge on the health/ill-health patterns of those who are knowledgeable of nutrition compared with those who are less knowledgeable.