Analysis of Fish Consumption Pattern among Kogi State University Students, Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study analyzed the pattern of fish consumption among Kogi State University students in Anyigba. It described the socio- economic characteristics of respondents, determine the effects of socio-economic characteristics on fish consumption, describe the types, forms, reasons for fish consumption and identify the constraints affecting fish consumption among the respondents. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 150 respondents. Well structured questionnaire coupled with interview scheduled were used to elicit primary data from the respondents. Descriptive statistics, binary logit regression and 3- point likert scale were used for data analyzing. The results showed that majority (60%) of the respondents were female, 72% were unmarried with an average household size of 3 persons and average income of N 20, 000 per month. Their sources of income were from parents and guardians. The result of the binary logit regression indicated that age (-1.21), income (0.99), price (-0.19), taste (0.65), health benefit (2.31) and price of substitute (0.68)  influenced the consumption of fish at 1%, 5% and 10% level of significant respectively. The types of fish consumed were majorly mackerel fish (45.33%), followed by tuna (27.34%). Iced fish were  mostly (40%) consumed, followed by 20.67% steamed fish and 7.33% were consumed in grilled form. 43.33% consumed  fish for health benefits, 24% consumed fish due to affordability and 14% consumed fish due to availability. Among the constraints facing fish consumption were allergy, proximity, storage and cost with mean score of 2.37, 2.16, 2.10, 2.36 and 2.38 respectively. Thus, fish and fish products were mostly consumed by the respondents with high consumption rate recorded by the female students. The prices of fish should be stabilized, adequate cold storage facilities should be purchased by the fish mongers and the university Fishery department should expand their ponds for efficient production.