Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding food-medicine dual-purpose substances among adults in China: a cross-sectional online survey.

BACKGROUND: Food medicine homology originated in ancient China and has been officially named food-medicine dual-purpose substances (FMS). However, the relationship between residents' knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP) and FMS among adults in China remains unclear. This study evaluated the current situation of FMS-related knowledge, awareness and actual consumption behaviors and practices of Chinese residents to provide a basis for both perfect related regulations and scientific advice on FMS consumption. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey on FMS perception and consumption was conducted through a convenience sampling strategy from August to December 2020. A total of 2,815 residents (96.3% were aged between 18 and 50 years old, 47.8% were male and 52.2% were female) from 31 provinces were recruited for this study. Descriptive analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: The results showed that residents' identification of FMS had an accurate response rate of 22.7% (640/2,815). Educational level was the factor associated with residents' knowledge of FMS. A total of 62.0% (1,744/2,815) of the residents would take the initiative to learn more about FMS. 93.8% (2,639/2,815) of them thought that manufacturers should make clear food labels when they add FMS. Almost half of the residents bought FMS products frequently (more than 12 times per year), and 96.1% (1,880/2,747) of the residents bought FMS mainly used for healthcare. Among the FMS they had ever consumed, the two most frequently consumed FMS by residents were yam (35.3%) and wolfberry (15.9%). 40.6%(1,143/2,815) of residents hoped that the government could increase publicity and conduct more popular science activities. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that adult residents in China who have substantial knowledge of FMS are not optimistic; however, they express positive attitudes toward knowing and consuming FMS, and there is a high need for labeling and a high demand for consumption. It is imperative to enhance research and policy development regarding FMS, to actively promote FMS knowledge, and to guide residents towards a more scientific and rational consumption of FMS in the future.