Résumé
Objectives: To characterize current feeding practices and to evaluate the adequacy of selected micronutrient intakes of young children in subsistence farming rural households in North Wollo, Ethiopia.Methods: Using a cross-sectional survey on 76 breastfed young children (aged 12-23 months) in two rural villages in Gobalafto district, data on the socio-demographic status, anthropometry and complementary feeding practices were collected. Two, in-home, non-consecutive 24h recalls were conducted to estimate intakes in iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Intakes were compared with estimated needs based on WHO/FAO recommended intakes, assuming average breast milk intake and composition.Results: About 33% (25 / 76) of the children were stunted. Complementary foods were predominantly cereal and legume based with little consumption of animal products, fruits and vegetables. The children's diet was entirely that of the family with little or no special attention. The contribution of animal source foods (ASF) to intakes of Ca, Fe and Zn was less than <5 %. Intakes of Ca, Zn, vitamin A and vitamin C from complementary foods were below WHO recommendations. However, iron intakes (mg) and densities (mg/ 100 kcal) met WHO recommendations even when assuming low bioavailability.Conclusions: Multiple micronutrient deficiencies and inadequate complementary feeding practices are likely in these communities. Food fortification or efforts to enhance dietary diversity by including ASF, dairy, and fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin A and vitamin C are needed. Further investigations are needed on the source (intrinsic/extrinsic) and bioavailability of the iron in these cereal-based complementary foods.