Odisha tops in intake of greens, Kerala consumes the least; sweet consumption high in M.P., says study.
A nation-wide study carried out by the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (NNMB) to assess urban nutrition shows not only a great diversity in food consumption in 16 States in the country, but also that Indians consume far less than the recommended quantum of several micro-nutrients and vital vitamins. Andaman and Nicobar Islands reported the highest intake of flesh foods, including meat and fish, Odisha has the highest consumption of green leafy vegetables (GLV). On an average, while the recommended dietary intake of GLV is 40g/CU/day, the consumption in the country is 24g/CU/day.
Madhya Pradesh has the lowest intake of flesh foods and Kerala consumes the least green leafy vegetables.
If Madhya Pradesh has a sweet tooth with the highest intake of sugar and jaggery, Odisha and Assam have the highest intake of salt. Rajasthan is high on the intake of fats and oils as well and milk and milk products.
The study, led by Avula Laxmaiah, Scientist (Director Grade) from National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), the country’s premier nutrition research institute, was released recently. The researchers used the method of a 24-hour dietary recall to collect food and nutrient information from 1.72 lakh people in 16 States.