Background – LCn-3PUFA are known to have beneficial effects on human health. However, changes to the human diet in the past 150 years appear to have resulted in reduced intakes of LCn-3PUFA which now fall well short of an adequate intake for optimal health.
Objective – To examine awareness of and intake of LCn-3PUFA major food sources by young adult consumers. Design – Questionnaires about knowledge and consumption of omega-3 fats were completed by 78 tertiary students (28 male and 50 female). Demographic variables were considered as influences on behaviour.
Outcomes – Intake of LCn-3PUFA (ALA, EPA and DHA) was considerably lower in females (60 mg/day) than in males (100 mg/day). These intakes were both lower than the average Australian adult intakes (females 159 mg/day and males 222 mg/day), and much lower than the recommended 430 mg/day for females and 610 mg/day for males. Seventy four percent of participants did not know about the best food sources of n-3 PUFA or the potential health benefits of consuming these fatty acids.Conclusions – The low intake of LCn-3PUFA by young adults is a concern. It is possible that awareness and consumption increases with age, as reflected in the Australian adult population. Consideration should be given to promotions targeting young adults to ensure an adequate consumption to maximise the health benefits in later years.