A Survey on the Dietary Habit and Milk Consumption Behavior of Preschool Children in the Daegu Area

This study aims to investigate the dietary habits, consumption of commercial beverages, and milk intake among children under the age of 7 in the Daegu area, providing foundational data for promoting healthy eating habits and increased milk consumption. A survey was conducted with 308 participants, including children attending daycares and kindergartens in Daegu and their mothers. The results showed that the majority of children ate breakfast daily, with an average of two types of vegetable side dishes, fruits consumed more than once a day, meat consumed 3-4 times a week, fish consumed 1-2 times a week, fast food consumed 1-2 times a week, snacks eaten more than once a day, and sweet snacks consumed more than once a day. The frequency of consuming commercial beverages, excluding milk, was reported to be 1-2 times per week, with fruit and vegetable juices being the most popular. The frequency of milk consumption was high, with many children consuming it at least once a day. Higher frequencies of milk consumption were associated with children who ate breakfast daily, did not exhibit picky eating behaviors, and exercised regularly. The most common reason for consuming milk was for growth and development, with the average daily milk intake being one cup. While plain milk was the most commonly consumed type, chocolate milk was preferred. Regarding purchasing decisions, brand loyalty was the most significant factor, and the most favored method to promote milk consumption was enhancing its nutritional content. In conclusion, it is necessary to connect with early childhood education institutions and parents to form proper eating habits and increase the milk intake of children under 7 years of age in the Daegu area. It is necessary to develop nutrition education programs and various educational contents for the nutritional value and effect of milk, as well as dietary education, provide educational materials to the home, develop milk products suitable for trends, and promote marketing.