The Department of Food Science and Processing Management organized an Outreach Program titled “Assessment of Nutritional Status for Preschool Children” on 12.09.2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Day care centre in Solunkuruni, Madurai. Ten first-year and eight second-year FSPM students participated in this outreach program, engaging with Day Care centre children and parents.
They conducted various physical measurements like height, weight and head circumference for the infants and BMI, body circumference to assess for the adiposity (waist, hip and limbs) and skinfold thickness for the parents. The students discussed with parents about childhood nutrition, growth milestones, and common health concerns.
Outcome of the Program
- The extension activity at the Day Care Center facilitated the students understanding of the general health status, nutritional adequacy, and the growth and development of the children.
- This program contributes to improving the nutritional status of malnourished children, raising nutrition awareness, and promoting a balanced nutritional lifestyle for both children and their parents.