JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Dietary patterns are one of the factors that influence health and well-being. Food consumption data are essential for evaluating and developing community nutrition policies. It is the first national food consumption survey among Jordanians aged eight and older.

Objective:

This study aimed to describe the design and methodology of the National Jordanian Households Food Consumption Patterns, 2021-2022, developed to collect national dietary habits and nutritional status in a representative sample of the general Jordanian population (8-85 years).

Methods:

Participants were selected by stratified random sampling, using the Estimated Population of the Kingdom by Governorate, Locality, Sex, and Households,2020 as the sampling frame. Data collection during six months. Dietary assessment was performed using 24-hour dietary recalls (24-h DR) (two non-consecutive, one week apart). Sociodemographic data and other health-related data were also collected. Weight, height, and waist circumference were measured.

Results:

A total of 632 households were enrolled, with 2145 participants; two 24-h DR was collected for them. The 24-h DR food consumption was transformed into energy intake, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fiber, and some vitamins and minerals intake. Results of the survey will be disseminated in national and international scientific journals from 2022 to 2023

Conclusions:

The survey will assist in the improvement of nutritional status. The survey will be a solid base for developing a future national surveillance system on food consumption patterns and collecting new data such as physical activity and blood pressure.