LEVEL OF EGG CONSUMPTION AND QUALITY ASSESSMENT BY THE PEOPLE OF ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the level of egg consumption and quality assessment by the people of Adamawa State. Simple and purposeful random sampling techniques were employed to draw information from respondents in the 21 Local Government Areas of the State. A total of 420 well structured questionnaires which focused on four issues were administered to 420 respondents. The issues included Social statuses, levels of egg consumption, egg consumption preferences and constrains to egg consumption. Out of the 420 questionnaires administered, there were 390 (93%) retrievals. Data obtained were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics of frequencies, totals and percentages. It was revealed that 59% of the respondents were males while 41% were females. Adults made up 52%, youths 37% and children 12%. Of the respondents, 53% were unmarried and 47% married. There were 52% urban dwellers while 48% were of rural areas. There were 95% who consume eggs with 63% consuming chicken eggs. It was found that majority of the respondents (52%) preferred chicken eggs, 24% guinea fowl, 18% turkey and 6% duck eggs. Eggs were preferred boiled by 64% of the respondents while 36% preferred fried ones. It was also revealed that 90% ate 1-3 eggs per day with 10% more than 3. However, not much could be eaten because of unavailability as stated by48%, 47% cost and 5% dislike. The most readily available egg is that of chicken (52%), guinea fowl (27%) and turkey (15%). Out of the respondents, 92% had no cultural taboo against egg consumption. From the study, it can be concluded that people in the research area consume eggs with no cultural taboo against it. Though chicken egg is the most preferred, the only hindrances to consumption are costs and unavailability. It is therefore recommended that local back yard production should be encouraged to increase level of consumption among the poor.