Fish Consumption Frequency in the Adult Population in Poland

Abstract

Fish provide energy, protein, and other important nutrients, including n-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and iodine. However, some species of fish could contain contaminants such as mercury and dioxins. The aim of the study was to assess the frequency of fish consumption in Poland, including of sea and freshwater fish species, referring to some socio-economic determinants. The frequency of consumption was assessed using Food Propensity Questionnaire data from 1489 adults (722 males, 767 females) in 2019–2020. The fish consumption frequency in Polish adults was lower than the recommendation (at least twice a week). About 80% of respondents consumed fish less frequently than recommended. Sea fish were mostly consumed less than once a month (31.8%) or 1–3 times a month (30.9%). Most subjects (44.8%) consumed freshwater fish less than once a month. Consumption also depended educational level, economic status, place of residence, declared health status, and BMI value or BMI status. However, taking into account sex, the occurrence of these relationships was different between men and women. It seems that educational activities and dissemination of proper nutrition principles is necessary in order to increase the consumption of fish in Poland. It is important to emphasize the health benefits of fish consumption in relation to the possible adverse effects of their contamination.

Keywords

• fish
• sea fish
• freshwater fish
• consumption frequency
• adults
• Poland