Perfil de conhecimento e consumo de alimentos contendo probióticos em Londrina - PR

Abstract

Health promotion has attracted increasing interest in scientific research and public health interventions, with emphasis on functional foods. Among them, probiotics, which are beneficial live microorganisms when consumed appropriately, have the potential to improve health. However, knowledge about the definition and benefits of probiotics is still limited. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and consumption of probiotics in Londrina/PR, and to evaluate the frequency and types of products consumed. Data collection was obtained by applying a questionnaire from a virtual environment, comprising social networks and messaging applications, with multiple-choice answers, in June 2024. The questionnaire contained 9 questions on gender, age group, knowledge and consumption of probiotics. Of the 100 forms sent, 70 were answered. Most participants were women (71.4%), predominantly between 26 and 30 years old. The results showed that 50% of respondents consume yogurt, followed by fermented milk (25.7%) as a source of probiotics. Although there is a growing concern for healthy eating habits, knowledge about the benefits of probiotics is still quite simple and limited, especially among men.