Association between Socio-economic and Demographic Factors and Fast-food Consumption in Lephalale, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

Fast food consumption is increasing globally and is associated with unhealthy dietary patterns and a growing burden of non-communicable diseases. In rural communities, where access to diverse and nutritious foods may be limited, socio-economic and demographic factors play an important role in shaping dietary choices. Despite increasing fast food availability in rural South Africa, evidence on the determinants of consumption in such settings remains limited. This study examined the influence of socio-economic, demographic, and lifestyle factors on fast food consumption among adults in Lephalale, Limpopo Province. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1063 individuals aged 18 years and older using a structured questionnaire. Data were collected on fast food consumption frequency, age, sex, income, education, occupation, health consciousness, and time availability. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise consumption patterns across population groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant predictors of frequent fast-food consumption, with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals calculated. Overall, 58.2% of participants reported consuming fast food at least weekly. Among individuals aged 18–24 years, 25% reported daily consumption and 35% weekly consumption. In the 25–34 age group, 20% reported daily consumption and 40% weekly consumption. Daily consumption among males was 22% compared to 15% among females, while weekly consumption was 35% among males and 30% among females. Participants with a high school education reported 30% daily and 40% weekly consumption. Full-time workers reported 20% daily and 40% weekly consumption, while students reported 30% daily and 40% weekly consumption. Low-income individuals had higher odds of frequent fast-food consumption compared to high-income individuals (AOR=1.92, 95% CI: 1.30–2.80). Individuals aged 18–24 years had higher odds of frequent consumption (AOR=3.02, 95% CI: 1.80–5.11), and males had higher odds than females (AOR=1.82, 95% CI: 1.06–3.14). Participants with a high school education had increased odds of frequent consumption (AOR=1.65, 95% CI: 1.01–2.67). Individuals with low health consciousness had higher odds of frequent consumption (AOR=2.12, 95% CI: 1.26–3.57), and those with high time availability also had higher odds (AOR=2.22, 95% CI: 1.33–3.71). Among adults residing in Lephalale, frequent fast-food consumption was associated with younger age, male sex, lower income, lower educational attainment, low health consciousness, and higher time availability. These findings support targeted nutrition education for young adults and lower-income groups, alongside improved access to affordable, nutritious food options and health awareness initiatives to encourage healthier diets. Key words: Socio-economic factors, rural populations, dietary behaviour, income, education