Diet Diversity and Food Consumption Patterns Among High School Adolescents in Machakel District, Amhara region, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sequential Study.

Abstract

Background: Globally, adolescents face significant challenges in achieving food and nutrition security, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study focused on assessing diet diversity and food consumption patterns of adolescent students in Machakel district during pre-harvest and post-harvest seasons, comparing food and nutrition security between the two seasons.
Method: The study used a cross-sequential design to assess diet diversity and food consumption patterns. Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) and Food Consumption Score (FCS) were used to measure food and nutrition security status. Using a simple random sampling technique, 410 students were selected from four high schools. Data were collected in the pre-harvest (Mid november-December) and post-harvest (April-May) seasons. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank tests. STATA 17 was utilized for analysis.
Result: Dietary diversity and food consumption scores among high school students in Machakel district varied by season and socio-economic status. The study found that food and nutrition security significantly improved in the post-harvest season compared to the pre-harvest season. At pre-harvest, 55%, 41%, and 4% had little, acceptable, and suitable dietary diversity scores (DDS), respectively, compared to 19%, 55%, and 26% post-harvest. Similarly, the percentage of poor, borderline, and acceptable food consumption scores shifted from 55%, 41%, and 4% to 2%, 30%, and 68%, respectively. School location, parental education, and household wealth were among the key factors influencing food and nutrition security.
Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for public awareness and targeted interventions, such as school feeding programs, nutrition education, and social support programs, to address the seasonal and socio-economic disparities in adolescent nutrition and improve their overall well-being.
Key words: Adolescent students, High school, Diet diversity score, Food consumption score, pre-harvest, post-harvest
DOI: 10.7176/JHMN/120-01
Publication date: March 30th 2026