Prevalence and Predictors of Unhealthy Food Consumption among Children Aged 6–23 Months in Ajmer District, Rajasthan: A Community-based Cross-sectional Study
Abstract
Unhealthy food consumption (UFC) during early childhood is rising in India. It is associated with poor dietary diversity, increasing risks of obesity, and malnutrition. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence and predictors of UFC among children aged 6–23 months in Ajmer district, Rajasthan. This community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2024 and May 2025. A total of 300 children were selected through multistage random sampling. Data were collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. It was based on World Health Organization/United Nations Children’s Fund Infant and Young Child Feeding indicators. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, child feeding practices, household food environment, and maternal-child health services were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, independent t -test, and multivariable logistic regression. The prevalence of UFC was 77% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 72.2–81.8). Maternal screen time (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.23, P = 0.046), child age (aOR: 1.28, P < 0.01), low dietary diversity (aOR: 0.13, P < 0.01), use of food delivery applications (aOR: 4.23, P = 0.047), proximity to food outlets (aOR: 2.89, P = 0.041), low healthy food score (aOR: 0.53, P = 0.010), high unhealthy food score (aOR: 3.71, P < 0.01), food insecurity (aOR: 0.63, P = 0.034), visibility to unhealthy food (aOR: 3.79, P = 0.035), more post-natal care visits (aOR: 3.67, P = 0.027), fewer antenatal care visits (aOR: 0.62, P < 0.01), and fewer Accredited Social Health Activist visits (aOR: 0.30, P < 0.01) were found predictors of UFC. The high prevalence of UFC among young children suggests the need for targeted interventions. It should include behaviorial change communication, strengthening of routine health services, and strict regulation of digital food marketing.