African Journal of
Food Science

  • Abbreviation: Afr. J. Food Sci.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 1996-0794
  • DOI: 10.5897/AJFS
  • Start Year: 2007
  • Published Articles: 983

Full Length Research Paper

A survey of fruits and vegetables consumed in Ghanaian households and their micromineral content

Janice Dwomoh Abraham
  • Janice Dwomoh Abraham
  • Department of Biological Sciences Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Mampong-Ashanti, Ghana.
  • Google Scholar
Philip Nyarko Kwakye
  • Philip Nyarko Kwakye
  • Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
  • Google Scholar
Abraham Baiden
  • Abraham Baiden
  • Department of Biological Sciences Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Mampong-Ashanti, Ghana.
  • Google Scholar
Francis Mensah
  • Francis Mensah
  • Department of Biological Sciences Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Mampong-Ashanti, Ghana.
  • Google Scholar


  •  Received: 22 April 2024
  •  Accepted: 14 June 2024
  •  Published: 30 June 2024

Abstract

Fruits and vegetables are good sources of microminerals essential for life. However, they can be relatively expensive and may even be unavailable during off-season periods. Many people do not consume fruits and vegetables frequently due to their high cost. As a result, they rely more on cereals, leading to malnutrition. This study aimed to determine the extent of fruit and vegetable consumption by Ghanaian households and assess the concentrations of selected microminerals in the fruits and vegetables consumed. A household food survey was conducted in 14 administrative regions of Ghana using a structured questionnaire. Selected fruits and vegetables were analyzed for their concentrations of Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn. The results revealed that Ghana has a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in microminerals, but their availability is not consistent throughout the year. The study also found that fruits and vegetables are abundant and cheaper during bumper seasons. Additionally, findings indicated regional variations in fruit consumption, with higher consumption occurring when fruits and vegetables are in season. Therefore, the country should establish storage and processing facilities to preserve excess fruits and vegetables during bumper seasons, ensuring a sustained supply during off-season periods.

 

Key words: Nutrition, fruits, vegetables, microminerals, health.