Consumption patterns, determinants and barriers of the underutilised Moringa oleifera Lam in Mauritius

The magnitude of non-communicable diseases epidemic in Mauritius heralds the need for increased attention. One of the key strategies includes the optimal use of nutritionally and medicinally rich indigenous crops, as a means of curbing the impact of this epidemic. The purpose of this study was to explore the Moringa oleifera leaves and pods consumption behaviour of Mauritian adults. The specific objectives were to (i)identify the M.oleifera consumption pattern (ii) identify the knowledge and perception of consumption as perceived facilitators and barriers, and (iii) establish relationships among different factors influencing consumption. Across-sectional study was carried out among a total number of 675 randomly selected Mauritian adults via questionnaire administration. The association of M.oleifera consumption with various potential determinants was calculated using Chi-square test. The study included 301 (44.6%) male and 374 (55.4%) female participants. The consumption of M.oleifera leaves and pods were dependent on multiple factors such as age, ethnicity, employment status, marital status and geographical location with a p value of less than 5%. The respondents were aware of the health benefits of the M.oleifera but consumed same as food rather than for its medicinal values. There was no significant difference in the consumption pattern and perception of Moringa leaves and pods between participants from rural and urban districts. 15.1% of the respondent nevertheless stated that they avoided M.oleifera because members of their families suffered from hypertension. This was further supported by 22.4% and 17.1% of the respondents disagreeing to the statement that M.oleifera can help in the management of hypertension. Such belief can certainly decrease the use of this nutritionally rich vegetable and limit the opportunities of its use to enhance food security, nutrition and health.