Predictors of dietary diversity in children ages 6 to 23 mo in largely food-insecure area of South Wollo, Ethiopia

The aim of this study was to assess the level and predictors of dietary diversity (DD) in predominantly food-insecure area of South Wollo, Ethiopia among children ages 6 to 23 mo. The study was conducted in October 2014. We selected 2080 children using a multistage sampling technique. DD in the preceding day of the survey was assessed with the standard seven-food group score. Predictors of DD were identified via Poisson regression model and the outputs are presented using adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Only 7% (95% CI, 5.9%–8.1%) of the children met the recommended minimum DD. Child age and maternal knowledge of infant and young child feeding (IYCF) were significant predictors of DD with IRR of 1.027 (95% CI, 1.022–1.032) and 1.026 (95% CI, 1.010–1.043). Households with moderate and severe food insecurity had 9% (95% CI, 3.8–13.9%) and 24.9% (95% CI, 14.6–44%) reduced chance of providing diversified food. Husbands' direct involvement in IYCF increased DD by 13.7% (95% CI, 7.4–20.4). Caregivers who discussed IYCF with health extension workers, participated in cooking demonstrations, and heard radio spots about IYCF in the preceding 3 mo had 11.7% (95% CI, 3.4–20.7%), 18.9% (95% CI, 0.3–40.9%), and 11.4% (95% CI, 4.8–18.4) higher chance of providing diversified food, respectively. Backyard gardening (IRR, 1.088; 95% CI, 1.031–1.148) and number of chickens owned (IRR, 1.011; 95% CI, 1.001–1.021) also were significant predictors. In predominately food-insecure areas, nutrition education, implementation of nutrition-sensitive agriculture, and husband involvement in IYCF can improve children's DD. •In South Wollo, only 7% of children met the recommended dietary diversity.•Even in food-insecure areas, nutrition education can improve dietary diversity.•Implementation of nutrition-sensitive agriculture augments dietary diversity.•Husband involvement in child feeding promotes dietary diversity of children.