ABSTRACT

 This study was designed to determine the level of knowledge and attitude towards consumption of fruits and vegetables among Imo state University students in Imo State. This cross-sectional survey involved the use of a two stage sampling technique in selecting 21 out of 43 departments and 416 students who were selected based on their population from Imo state University. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. The questionnaire contained 15 questions for knowledge and 5-point scale with 6 items attitude scales on consumption offruits and vegetables. Knowledge scores of>5 were rated as poor, scores from 6 to 10 were rated fairly good and 11 to 15 were rated good While attitude scores of <3.00 and >3.1were classified as negative and positive respectively. Questions were also asked on frequency and factors influencing consumption offruits and vegetables. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics frequency and percentage. The results revealed that Majority (64%) had good knowledge of consumption of fruits and vegetables, while 69.8% had positive attitude towards consumption of fruits and vegetables. About 14.0% and 10.0% consumed fruits and vegetables daily respectively. 67.8% ofthe respondents reported eating 2 fruits in a day. This was followed by 18% who reported eating 1 fruitin a day, 11% reported eating 3 or more fruits in a day and 3.3% reported never eating fruit. On factors influencing consumption of fruits and vegetables, cost, availability and knowledge of health benefits were the main reasons behind non consumption of fruits and vegetables, these factors also influenced the student’s most preferred fruits and vegetables and the frequency of consumption. The result showed a significant association between the age of the respondents and their knowledge of fruits and vegetables consumption (P<0.005), this means that the age of the respondents has a role to play in their knowledge of fruits and vegetables consumption. There was a consensus that education ofthe students on the health benefits of consumption offruits and vegetables would increase the intake level. Respondents were knowledgeable and had positive attitude towards consumption of fruits and vegetables while the frequency was low. It was recommended that innovative school-based nutrition education programs are needed to further encourage and educate University students to consume more fruits and vegetables. « Keywords: Fruits and vegetable consumption, University students, Imo State.