Exploring Fish Consumption Patterns: A Comparative Study of Urban and Rural Households in Kawardha, (Kabirdham District) Chhattisgarh, India

Abstract

This study examined regional differences in fish consumption patterns and their correlation with household characteristics in the Kawardha block of Chhattisgarh, India. The study explored various aspects of fish consumption, including occupation, monthly income and expenditure, consumption frequency, species preference, factors influencing fish consumption, and constraints faced by fish consumers. A survey was conducted with 100 respondents (50 households from each region), randomly selected. The collected data were analysed using frequency and percentage and the findings revealed that rural households consumed more fish compared to urban households, with Rohu (Labeo rohita) emerging as the preferred fish species in both regions. The majority of consumers in both rural (45.25%) and urban areas (62.5%) preferred to consume fish once a week. The High Income group (HIG) urban households (82.75%) and low-income group (LIG) rural households (88.23%) were the primary fish consumers. The study also observed that households with a heavy occupational lifestyle consumed more fish (68%) in rural areas, whereas households with a sedentary occupational lifestyle consumed more fish in urban areas (44%). Factors influencing fish consumption were found to be the price and quality of fish. Constraints faced by fish consumers included concerns about hygiene and the availability of desired fish sizes. Various reasons were identified for the reluctance to consume fish, such as the presence of bones, religious beliefs, and sensory preferences. Understanding the regional disparities in fish consumption patterns and the associated household characteristics can guide targeted interventions for promoting sustainable and healthy fish consumption practices in both rural and urban areas. This knowledge can contribute to the development of strategies to address constraints and improve fish consumption habits, leading to better nutrition and overall well-being of inhabitants of both regions.