Infuluence Of Cultural And Traditional Food Practices On Family Peace In Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State:- Onugwu, Jacintha C

ABSTRACT x Food holds both nutritional and cultural significance, serving not only as a source ofsustenance but also as a medium for communication, bonding, and the transfer of values within families. This study investigated the role of cultural and traditional food practices in promoting family peace in Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State. A cross-sectional design was adopted, and 50 households were selected from Ede Oballa and Nru communities. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed quantitatively using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27. Results revealed that most respondents were male (64%), married (86%), and predominantly Igbo (98%), with the majority engaged in trading (60%). Educational attainment varied, with (46%) attaining secondary education, while monthly household income was generally modest, with (34%) earning below N30,000. Household sizes were typically medium to large, with (54%) comprising 4-6 members and (40%) between 7—9. Traditional foods commonly consumed included okpa, achicha, ayaraya ji, egusi soup, yam pottage, and otipiri, all of which were widely available and accepted in the study area. On the social role offood, (66%) of respondents strongly agreed that meals promote bonding, while (88%) agreed that traditional meals foster respect and cooperation. Furthermore, (70%) offamilies reported eating together daily, and (42%) indicated that family matters were sometimes discussed during meals, underscoring the role ofmealtime traditions in encouraging communication. Statistical analysis showed a significant association between the promotion of respect and cooperation during meals and improved family peace (%2 = 17.479, p = 0.025). However other associations such as frequency offamily meals and family communication were not statistically significant. In conclusion, the findings demonstrated that cultural and traditional food practices remain integral to family life in Nsukka, with meals functioning as more than nourishment but also as tools for bonding, respect, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence. Despite limited statistical significance in some variables, the overwhelming descriptive evidence underscores the emotional, symbolic, and identity-building roles oftraditional meals. Promoting such practices through nutrition education and community sensitization is recommended as a means of strengthening family harmony and preserving cultural heritage.