Effects of Nutrition Education on the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) Towards Millet Consumption in School-Aged Children (10-15 Years) in Virudhunagar District, Tamil Nadu, India

Original Research Article

Abstract

India, a prominent millet producer, recognizes these grains for their exceptional nutritional benefits and resilience. Millets, are source of many vital nutrients including antioxidants and phytonutrients that support heart health, diabetes management and cancer prevention. Present study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to millet consumption among school children aged 10-15 years in Sivakasi and Thiruthangal, Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu. The study sampled 600 children from grade 5 to 9 from four schools—two private and two government. Data was collected through a questionnaire assessing demographics, millet consumption frequency, preferred millet dishes, and KAP before and after a nutrition education program. The responses were binary (yes/no), and KAP scores were analyzed using descriptive statistics and percentages via Microsoft Excel and SPSS, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results indicated a general lack of preference for Kodo, proso and foxtail millets compared to other varieties. However, the nutrition education program positively influenced the frequency of millet consumption, with significant improvements observed in attitude scores towards millet. The study highlights the effectiveness of nutrition education in improving dietary practices among school children. Government has also shown interest in this matter by millet distribution through the Public Distribution System (PDS) and incorporation of millets into school meal programs.