Household Consumption Pattern for Fruits and Vegetables in Rural and Urban Barangays in Los Baños, Laguna, 2024

Date

6-2024

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics

College

College of Economics and Management (CEM)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Julieta A. Delos Reyes

Committee Member

Geny F. Lapiña, Maria Angeles O. Catelo

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Abstract

This study analyzed the household consumption pattern for fruits and vegetables in rural and urban barangays in Los Baños, Laguna. Primary data were obtained from 82 rural and urban households through personal interviews. Descriptive analysis was used to characterize the household food decision-makers and members in rural and urban barangays. It described the household consumption patterns for fruits and vegetables including other major food groups and determined the factors associated with the household consumption patterns and the proportion consumed for fruits and vegetables including other major food groups in rural and urban barangays. Baybayin was chosen to represent the rural barangay, while Batong Malake was selected to represent the urban barangay. Weekly food expenditure described the household's weekly spending across all food groups, and the Mann-Whitney U test was utilized to assess the difference between rural and urban household food expenditures. Fisher’s exact test was employed to identify the factors influencing the consumption proportions of all major food groups (Go, Grow, and Glow food). Results showed that urban households spent more than rural households, with average weekly food expenditures of PhP 2,317.47. Meat was the top food expense in both areas, alongside rice as a staple. Fruits and vegetables made up a smaller share of spending. The expenditure for Grow food was found to be statistically different between rural and urban households. Go foods were consumed daily for lunch and dinner, whereas Grow foods were eaten 3 to 4 times a week. Vegetables and fruits were consumed less frequently, often in smaller portions than recommended, particularly in rural areas. Urban households met the 33 percent Go food recommended more than rural households. Rural households preferred to buy food in Los Baños Public market, while urban households preferred to buy in public markets, supermarkets, roadside markets, and street vendors. Based on Fisher’s Exact test results, it was found that Go food consumption was associated with the age of household food decision-makers, dependency ratio, mean age of household members, years of formal schooling, and Glow (vegetable) food prices, particularly in rural areas. For Grow food, only Glow (vegetable) food prices in rural households showed a significant association. Glow (Vegetables) food consumption was linked to household income in urban areas and manual labor occupation of household food decision-makers in rural households. For Glow (Fruits) food, age, occupation of household food decision-makers, and household income were significant factors in urban households. Results suggest that it is recommended to promote the Pinggang Pinoy Meal Model Plan through information and education campaigns starting at local government units. Expand edible landscape gardening project through coordination of the local government unit with selected household groups who would like to work in vacant communal areas. Localizing the production of fruits and vegetables in Los Baños, Laguna, or shortening the food supply chains.

Language

English

LC Subject

Food consumption—Philippines, Cost and standard of living

Location

UPLB College of Economics and Management (CEM)

Call Number

LG 993.5 2025 A14 R39

Notes

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Document Type

Thesis

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