Considerable decreased fruits and snack consumption in Iran population during COVID-19 lockdown: a cross-sectional web-based survey National Food and Nutrition Surveillance

Abstract

Abstract Background Inadequate fruits and vegetables intake is associated with several diseases. This study aimed to explore changes in fruits and snack consumption during the COVID-19-related lockdown in Iran. Methods An online cross-sectional survey among Iranian households was conducted from the 4th to 25th April 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown. Data were collected about any changes in frequency consumption of the fruits and snacks and the reasons for the changes. Ordinal logistic regression was performed to examine which factors contributed to changes in consumption. To account for the complex sampling design and allow inferences valid for the population, sampling weights were used in all analyses. Results A total of 21,290 households took part in the survey. During the epidemic, consumption of fruits and snacks decreased by 35% and 44%, respectively. Among the households whose fruit intake was decreased, about 21% fully omitted it from their food baskets. Residing in rural areas, having more than six members in the household, income loss, and residing in deprived provinces were directly associated with decreased consumption of fruits and snacks. Being a female-headed household was positively associated, and having persons with COVID-19 in the households was inversely associated, with decreased consumption of fruits. The main reason for reducing fruit and snack consumption was income loss. Conclusions A significant decline in fruit and snack consumption because of COVID-19 lockdown was seen among the Iranian households. It is likely that these changes in dietary habits will become longstanding with consequent adverse health outcomes.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• Lockdown
• Fruit
• Snack
• Survey