Food consumption patterns in Poland

Abstract

The aim of the presented analysis was to demonstrate changes in the food consumption patterns in Poland. Food balance sheet data from the years 1990-2008 and household budget surveys from 2000-2008 were studied. The collected data show that the main changes in food consumption patterns took place in the 1990s, after which the evolution of food consumption structure and level became more fixative. From the nutritional point of view favourable growth of fruit and fish consumption and decrease in the consumption of animal fat and sugar were noted. A drop in the consumption of milk and its products and growth of total fat consumption can be evaluated as disadvantages. Household budget data show that after 2000 the level of food consumption, including cereal products, potatoes, dairy products, eggs, fats (overall and animal), fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, as well as sugar, honey, jam and sweets generally decreased. However, the consumption of meat and fish, yoghurt and cheese, butter, juices and waters increased. Food consumption patterns of Polish families are being determined in the first place by their income situation and, next, by their social-economic features and the place of residence.