The factors affecting the nutrition knowledge of grocers: a case of Nakasero market, Kampala City

Abstract

This study assessed the factors affecting the nutrition knowledge of grocers using Nakasero Market in Kampala city as a case study. The study was guided by three specific objectives which included; to establish the perception of grocers on nutrition knowledge, to identify the beliefs affecting grocers’ nutrition knowledge and finally to identify the source of nutrition information for grocers in Nakasero market. The study applied a descriptive research design using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Primary data was collected by questionnaire survey. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Simple descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used in the analysis of the quantitative findings. Qualitative data followed the thematic analysis method. The study concluded that negative perception on nutrition knowledge prevents grocers from getting nutrition knowledge. Secondly, it concluded that education is key in knowledge acquisition because the grocers who had attained a higher education had more nutrition knowledge than those who had low education levels. Finally it was also concluded that some beliefs prevent grocers from disseminating appropriate knowledge to their clients. Grocers fear that if they tell their clients, the clients may stop buying their grocery. Grocers; hence, persuade their clients to buy without telling the clients about the nutritional value. By so doing, grocers fail to influence the nutritional status of their community.