Refugees of former Soviet Union slowly adopt U.S. diet

Abstract

The diet of refugees from the former Soviet Union living in Sacramento is characterized by a high reliance on grains, meats and dairy foods. While consumption of vegetables and fruits is increasing in Sacramento, it still appears to be very low. High-fat foods and salt-preserved foods are major components of the diet. Families from the former Soviet Union living in Sacramento have not yet made major changes in their food preparations and meal patterns. However, they are adopting a variety of new foods into their traditional meals. While dietary acculturation among adults appears to be low, school-age children are rapidly becoming acculturated and are consuming American fast foods and snacks.