A Fast Track Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.
Authors:
Resa Ana Dina
Eka Purna Yudha
Objective:
The food taboo phenomenon remains prevalent in villages around Nusantara Capital City and is linked to stunting. A qualitative study exploring food taboos, stunting incidence, and related challenges is essential.
Methods:
Using a phenomenological approach with in-depth interviews, we involved informants from the Regional Health Office, Food Security Office, and parents of children suspected of stunting, from Penajam Paser Utara and Kutai Kartanegara regencies.
Results:
Food taboo traditions in East Kalimantan, such as avoiding gabus fish and Pundur fruit for pregnant and lactating women, hinder nutritional fulfillment, worsening stunting. These issues are compounded by unsanitary environments and limited clean water access. Whereas posyandu education (integrated health service post) has been implemented, geographical, economic, and various education challenges persist.
Conclusions:
Dietary restrictions rooted in tradition aggravate stunting in East Kalimantan. The government must enhance culturally sensitive education, improve health services and clean water access, and involve community leaders to address nutrition-related taboos.
Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 12, Number 4, October 2025, pp. 2012-2024(13)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.12.4.3