Maternal Awareness and Attitude towards Rainbow Nutrition for under-Five Children in Urban and Rural Sikkim: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background & Objective: Optimal early childhood nutrition is crucial for growth and development. “Rainbow nutrition,” promoting consumption of diverse colourful fruits and vegetables, enhances dietary diversity and micronutrient intake. However, maternal awareness regarding this concept remains underexplored, particularly in Sikkim. This study aimed to assess maternal awareness and attitude toward rainbow nutrition among mothers of under-five children and examine associated factors. Methodology: A pilot community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 mothers of under-five children residing in urban and rural areas of Gangtok district, Sikkim. Consecutive sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic variables, maternal awareness, and attitude towards rainbow nutrition. Face-to-face interviews were conducted after obtaining informed consent. Data were analysed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used. Inferential statistics including independent sample t-test and chi-square test were applied to determine differences and associations. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Most urban mothers (73.3%) had good awareness, whereas rural mothers predominantly had moderate (60%) and poor (26.7%) awareness. Urban mothers also demonstrated more favourable attitudes. A significant difference was observed in mean awareness scores between groups, and maternal awareness was significantly associated with husband’s education in urban areas (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Maternal awareness and attitude towards rainbow nutrition were comparatively better among urban mothers than rural mothers. Strengthening community-based nutrition education and behaviour change communication, particularly in rural areas, is essential to promote dietary diversity and improve child health outcomes.