Feeding Practices among Senior Civil Servants in Umuahia North Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Feeding practices are important determinants of nutritional status and long-term health outcomes. Rapid urbanisation, increasing income levels, changing lifestyles, and the proliferation of convenience foods have significantly influenced dietary behaviours among working populations in developing countries. Civil servants, particularly senior staff, are often exposed to sedentary work schedules, increased dependence on commercially prepared foods, and dietary transitions that may predispose them to nutrition-related diseases. However, limited evidence exists regarding the feeding practices of senior civil servants in south-eastern Nigeria. This study assessed the feeding practices of senior civil servants in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 222 senior civil servants selected from ministries and parastatals in Umuahia North Local Government Area. Respondents were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured and pre-tested questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, food sources, meal patterns, eating-out habits, food consumption practices, and dietary behaviours. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: The majority of respondents obtained their food through purchase from daily markets (43.2%), while only 1.8% primarily depended on food produced from their own farms. More than two-fifths (41.4%) reported eating outside the home more than three times monthly, and 66.7% reported eating three meals per day outside the home. The findings revealed substantial consumption of refined cereals, rice, bread, and processed foods, while consumption of some traditional foods and agricultural products was relatively low. The study also found a growing reliance on commercially available foods and convenience-based feeding practices among respondents. Conclusion: Senior civil servants in Umuahia North Local Government Area exhibit feeding practices characterised by frequent market dependence, regular eating outside the home, and consumption of refined and convenience foods. Nutrition education programmes targeting healthier food choices, improved dietary diversity, and greater consumption of locally produced foods may contribute to better nutritional outcomes among civil servants.