Preliminary studies on some aspects of Kikuyu food habits†

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Abstract
These preliminary studies were conducted prior to a comprehensive evaluation of child nutrition programs among the Kikuyu in Kenya. They cover general aspects of Kikuyu food habits such as the foods presently in use, the classification of foods and food preferences for children. The emphasis is on the methods employed in these studies which can be used elsewhere to obtain information vital to the evaluation and planning of child nutrition programs. A discussion on foods used by the Kikuyu in the rural areas is accompanied by a list of food names in the vernacular. Certain changes that occurred over the last decennia are briefly touched upon. A quick method of studying food classification is described. There are no indications that the Kikuyu food classification differs substantially from the nutritional assignation generally used. Maternal food preferences were measured. The method of paired comparisons gives highly consistent and reliable results. Maternal preferences are remarkably similar for different parts of Kikuyu country with a high preference for legumes and some starchy foods while certain cereals are held in conspicuously low regard.

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