Energy and Nutrient Content of a Disaster Kitchen Menu and Nutrition Services Coordination Experience: Kahramanmaraş Earthquake, Türkiye

OpenAlex İngilizce

BackgroundOn 6 February 2023, 2 major and aftershock earthquakes occurred in Türkiye. These earthquakes caused disasters in Kahramanmaraş, Hatay, and its surroundings. More than 50 000 people lost their lives. The day after the earthquakes, disaster/emergency kitchens were established in these cities with the initiatives of various institutions and organisations. One of these kitchens is the 'Anadolu Mutfağı', which was established by Anadolu University in 2023. Approximately 15 000 people benefited from the emergency kitchen in Belen district of Hatay every day.ObjectiveIn this study, the daily needs of adults eating in this kitchen were evaluated. Additionally, the basic problems and requirements encountered during the operation of nutrition services are included.MethodsBreakfast, lunch, and dinner menus served in the emergency kitchen were monitored on-site by the researcher for a week and the amounts served to 1 person were recorded. Daily energy and nutrient values were calculated. These values were evaluated using Türkiye Nutrition Guide 2022 reference values.ResultsIt was determined that the energy intake of adults fed from the disaster/emergency kitchen was sufficient; however, the daily recommended intake of important minerals and vitamins such as calcium and vitamins E and C was not met. In addition, it was observed that daily water consumption of individuals was insufficient. In addition, it was also observed that those with chronic diseases had difficulty in accessing the special diet products they needed.ConclusionIn such crisis, it is recommended that strategies for community nutrition should be developed, updated, coordinated, and implemented immediately.