Nutritional Assessment of the Immigrant Ecuadorian Population in Spain Based on a 24-h Food Recall

Abstract

There is little information on diet of Ecuadorian immigrant population in Spain. The study carried out a nutritional assessment of the diet of the Ecuadorian immigrant population in Spain to determine differences in food patterns and possible nutritional deficiencies. The nutritional assessment was based on a 24-h food recall survey applied to the Ecuadorian population residing in Murcia (Spain) in combination with the application of national and international food composition data bases. Nutrient intake levels and fulfillment of Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) were estimated and statistically tested for social, sex, age and geographical factors. Macronutrient distributions and nutrient intake levels in relation with DRIs were adequate in most cases. Importantly, Ecuadorian food habits were still present in immigrant population, with rice being the main energy source. Intakes levels were significantly different for several nutrients depending on age group, sex, place of residence and professional.