Estimates of Indigenous Food Consumption and Their Contribution to Nutrient Intake in Oraon Tribal Women of Jharkhand, India

Introduction: Oraon tribes of India have high levels of undernutrition. Dietary diversification is one of the food-based interventions to ameliorate malnutrition. Objectives: This study assessed the awareness and availability of indigenous foods and estimated dietary intakes and nutritional status with emphasis on indigenous food consumption among women in the Oraon tribal community in Jharkhand, India. Design: A cross-sectional study with a longitudinal component on dietary intake assessment to capture seasonality. Setting: Selected villages in Raidih block of Gumla district of Jharkhand. Participants: Reproductive-age Oraon tribal women (N =143). Methods: Household and dietary surveys were conducted. A 24-hour dietary recall for 2 consecutive days (repeat surveys in 2 other seasons) and food frequency questionnaire were adminsitered on 1 woman per household. Anthropometric assessments were also carried out. Outcomes: Socioeconomic status, awareness about indigenous foods, dietary intake pattern, and contribution of indigenous food to nutrient intake of Oraon tribal women in the reproductive age-group. Results: Comprehensive awareness about indigenous food resources was present. However, household food security and actual intake of indigenous foods were low. Higher intake of key micronutrients, calcium and iron, was observed among those who consumed indigenous foods. About 40% of the woman had various degrees of chronic energy deficiency. Conclusion: Despite rich knowledge, nutrient-rich indigenous food resources remain underutilized in the Oraon tribal community of Jharkhand, India. Identifying strategies to promote dietary diversity via optimum indigenous food intake could contribute to both food and nutrition security.