Fourteenth International Conference on Food Studies

Abstract

South Africa (SA), like many countries, is lagging in reaching the Sustainable Development Goals to end hunger and malnutrition by 2030. In SA, more women than men are malnourished, with over a third being undernourished and/or overweight. Malnutrition increases the risk of health consequences and reduces an individual’s potential to work, contribute to local economies, or care for their families. The workplace is recognized as a highly effective platform for implementing strategies to improve health behavior. Moreover, targeting nutrition interventions for female workers will enable them to make healthier food choices for their families, breaking the cycle of poor health and economic stagnation. Despite strategies to address malnutrition, “traditional” interventions such as educational sessions, health initiatives, and counseling are often not effective or sustainable. In contrast, self-initiated health behaviors, involving peer groups or interpersonal community platforms are associated with improved health outcomes. However, further knowledge of the most effective delivery modalities in local settings is needed to achieve maximum benefits. This study aims to implement and evaluate the impact of peer-initiated nutrition intervention approaches on the KAP (nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and practices) and the nutritional status of female farmworkers near Pretoria, SA. Informed by preliminary nutritional assessments and guided by a nutritionist, a voluntary farmworker, voted as the nutrition ambassador, assisted in initiating and distributing tailored healthy eating messages, and coordinated activities, including food displays and cooking demonstrations. The outcomes of this study can be used to guide the implementation of cost-effective, sustainable nutrition intervention approaches in the workplace.