Food Consumption Patterns of Heterogeneous Adults from Non-Specific Locations in Three East African Cities: a Qualitative Comparative Study

This qualitative study explores consumption patterns and food preferences across three East African cities through focus group discussions involving 70 adult men and women. The study reveals commonalities in food sources and staple foods among participants in Kampala, Nairobi, and Dar es Salaam. While most foods prepared at home were sourced from local markets, street vendors, and general shops, supermarkets played a significant role in introducing new processed and nutritious products. The rise in supermarket usage in East African cities has been associated with contemporary health issues such as obesity, prompting concerns about food quality from other sources like street vendors and traditional markets. Participants across the cities showed a preference for energy-dense staple foods like rice, Ugali, cassava, and beans, often accompanied by meat, vegetables, or fish. Differences in staple foods and eating preferences were observed, with Kampala offering a wider variety of options compared to Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. The consumption of meat and meat products was influenced by participants' income levels, with affordability playing a significant role in food choices. Street foods emerged as a common feature in all three cities, with unique offerings like Chips Mayai in Dar es Salaam, Kikomando and Rolex in Kampala, and Mutura in Nairobi. Participants' food choices were influenced by factors such as affordability, accessibility, taste preferences, and cultural norms. The study also highlighted the importance of urban agriculture in some households, emphasizing selfsustainability in food production. Overall, the study provides insights into the diverse food consumption trends and patterns in East African urban settings, shedding light on the role of different food sources, staple foods, and street foods in shaping dietary practices among residents. Further research is needed to explore the impact of these consumption patterns on health outcomes and to develop strategies for promoting healthy eating habits in urban populations.