Influence of Consumption of Ready to Eat Processed Food on The Nutritional Status of Preschool Children (3-5 Years) Studying in various Anganwadi of Surat City.

This study examines the dietary patterns of preschoolers consuming ready-to-eat processed foods versus home-cooked meals. The research aims to determine the impact of these dietary choices on their nutritional status, considering factors like BMI, MUAC, and micronutrient intake. Data was collected from 400 preschool children through dietary recall and anthropometric measurements. Findings suggest that children consuming processed foods regularly have higher sodium intake, lower fiber consumption, and increased obesity risk compared to those on a home-cooked diet.