Purchasing Pattern of Animal Protein Types: A Case Study of uishopweL in University of Ibadan Campus

Abstract

Animal protein is an essential component of a balanced diet in human nutrition and it can be obtained from myriad sources. However, the patronage of animal proteins is hinged on purchasing power, socioeconomic status and relative perception of the consumer's nutritional needs. The University of Ibadan is one such University community in Nigeria where the consumers of animal protein-sourced foods are conscious of the importance of a balanced diet for healthy living. Therefore, a study was carried out at the UishopweL of the University of Ibadan, to assess consumers' purchasing patterns of animal proteins. Data from the sales of animal proteins over 8 months (228 days) were collated and used to determine the trend of purchase of animal protein types based on quantity and frequency (days per week) of patronage using descriptive statistics. The results revealed that mean animal protein patronage during the week was highest on Wednesdays (613.24kg) and lowest on Saturdays (169.44kg). Every week, red meat was the most purchased animal protein type, while fresh fish was the least. The mean daily patronage of red meat was highest for beef (74.12 kg, 81 days) and lowest for chevon (7.14kg, 33 days). Iced fish, chicken and table eggs were purchased daily while dried fish was once a week. In conclusion, higher daily purchases of animal protein-sourced foods in UishopweL were on Wednesdays, and the weekly purchase of beef was more than other animal protein types.