Hygienic Assessment of Actual Nutrition of the Population of the Rostov Region

Abstract

Background: Despite extensive knowledge in nutritional sciences, micronutrient deficiencies and an excessive nutrient intake causing overweight and obesity remain a critical challenge. Objective: To develop proposals for improving the food basket of the population of the Rostov Region in view of the regional specifics. Materials and methods: In spring–summer 2022, we conducted a questionnaire-based survey involving 2,168 workingage residents (962 men and 1,206 women aged 18–65 years) on 55 territories of the Rostov Region. Actual nutrition was assessed based on the reported 24-hour food intake data. Information about the availability of dietary supplements and fortified foods in the retail network was retrieved from the reports prepared by the Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology in the Rostov Region. Results: Our findings showed monotony and imbalance of the regular diet of the regional population. Conclusions: We have revealed noncompliance with the principles of healthy eating in the study population and developed recommendations for improving eating habits in various social groups.