Socio-demographic and economic factors associated with the consumption of processed foods in South Africa - Evidence from Demographic and Health Survey VII.

Objective: The primary objective of this study was to examine the socio-demographic and economic factors associated with the consumption of processed foods in South Africa.

Study Design: This is an empirical study where secondary data analysis was performed from the South African Demographic and Health Survey VII.

Methods: A nationally representative sample of 10,336 participants (aged ≥15 years) was included in the analysis. Using regression models, we studied the association between socio-demographic and economic predictors and the intake of processed foods.

Results: The regression models found that the odds of consumption of any type of processed foods were significantly high in all South African provinces but specifically higher in urban settings, those with any level of education, and young adults. The odds of processed meat consumption were significantly higher among the coloured population, while that of fried food, fast food, and salty snacks was significant in the white population. The odds of consumption increased irrespective of marital status and were higher among males, specifically among those in the poorer and poorest wealth quintiles.

Conclusion: These findings warrant advocacy and action for healthy food choices in the population. The role of industry, ethnic vulnerability, and gender stereotypes in food preparation are areas that need priority attention.