Changes in food availability in metropolitan Santiago Chile according to income (quintiles) 1988-1997

Changes in household food availability from 1988-1997 obtained in a representative sample of Metropolitan Santiago were assessed; and related to observed changes in the epidemiological profile. We evaluated expenditures in food and beverages from the IV and V Household Expenditure Surveys conducted every 10 years by the National Institute of Statistics to calculate the Consumer Price Index. Food items were similarly grouped and expenditures from both surveys adjusted to concordance by assigning prices according to of food; the units consumed outside and at home were determined. Food expenditures increased, leading to greater food availability in all households and income categories; the increment was largest in the poorest quintiles. Apparent consumption of processed cereals, pastries and baked goods, poultry and pork, processed dairies, beverages and juices, dressings and mayonnaise, pre cooked meals and meals consumed "out of home" increased. Fish, vegetables and fruits increased slightly with a concomitant decrease in legumes. The present dietary pattern is also characterized by a greater availability of animal food products and processed foods; increased energy density, fat and saturated fat energy, sugars and high glycemic index foods; lower in phytochemicals, antioxidants, dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. These changes are probably having a significant impact on the epidemiological and nutritional profile of the country; as manifested by an epidemic increase in obesity and chronic disease burden related to diet and physical inactivity.