Dietary Pattern among Seasonal Agricultural Migrant Workers from African countries in Spain

Abstract

Objective: The Spanish agricultural sector depends on seasonal agricultural migrant workers. This study aimed to examine the associations among dietary patterns, sociodemographic factors, and food security among seasonal agricultural workers. Design: A cross-sectional multicentre study. The dietary pattern was evaluated according to the Spanish Society of Community Nutrition recommendations for the adult population. Descriptive analysis was disaggregated according to sex. Multi-adjusted logistic models were used to assess the association between dietary patterns and explanatory variables. Setting: Work sites and temporary accommodations in 4 Spanish provinces: North Spain: Lleida and La Rioja, and South Spain: Almeria and Huelva. Participants: Male and Female Seasonal Agricultural Migrant Workers (n=623). Results: The final sample consisted of 609 migrant agricultural workers. Of these, 36% were female, and 61% were classified as North African. Overall, 40% of the participants adhered to the evaluated dietary pattern. Adherence was positively associated with North African nationality, being married or cohabiting, and low socio-economic status. Not skipping meals due to economic constraints and receiving food aid emerged as key factors contributing to greater adherence to the assessed dietary pattern. Conclusions: This study provides an initial insight into the dietary pattern of seasonal agricultural migrant workers in Spain. The findings indicate that external socioeconomic and structural factors primarily shape their dietary habits. Policies aimed at enhancing food security and other food coping strategies, such as access to food aid, are crucial for improving dietary adherence to a healthy dietary pattern.

This study has been funded by Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII) through the project PI20/01310 (Co-funded by European Regional Development Fund/European Social Fund “A way to make Europe”/“Investing in your future”).