Abstract

MARTINEZ JAIKEL, Tatiana  and  MORA RAMIREZ, Diana. Practices related to chicken consumption in two rural-urban Communities of Costa Rica. Rev. costarric. salud pública [online]. 2010, vol.19, n.1, pp.30-35. ISSN 1409-1429.

Objective: To determine consumption, purchase, storing and cooking practices used for chicken in families and health personnel from two Costa Rican communities, one urban and one rural, in the period 2007-2008. Methodology: A qualitative-descriptive study was undertaken, using focal groups and interviews with families and health personnel from the communities of Alajuela and Piedades de Santa Ana. Results: A diversity of preparations, ingredients and cooking methods were observed. The principal sites of purchase in the urban area are those which inspire confidence among shoppers, and supermarkets in the rural area. The main criteria for selecting chicken at the moment of purchase are price and freshness of the product, this in turn being determined by the color and odor of the meat. Conclusions: The diversity of ingredients and forms of preparation are related to the availability of different chicken parts in the market. An important lack of knowledge was detected, regarding the correct way to thaw frozen chicken, and this could be related to the limited information that people receive. Although the possible hormone content and the risk of microbiological contamination are perceived by the population as a disadvantage, the main criteria used when purchasing are the cost and freshness of the meat.

Keywords : health knowledge; attitudes; practice, poultry; food.

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