Breadfruit, banana, beef, and beer: Modernization of the Samoan diet

Abstract

Samoans traditionally based their diet on breadfruit, banana, taro, yam and coconut, supplemented with fish and shellfish from coral reefs. Ocean fish, pigs and fowl were foods reserved for festive occasions. After 150 yr of exposure to missionaries, traders and military personnel, the Samoan diet has been substantially altered. A preliminary description of these changes is given. A 24-h recall questionnaire was administered to 330 Samoan adults residing in American Samoa and Hawaii [USA]. The subjects were categorized as more traditional, intermediate or modernized on the basis of residence. The data reveal a trend for increasing reliance on purchased foods. Canned corned beef, canned fish and fresh beef are important sources of calories and protein for the Samoans, while bread and rice partially substitute for the traditional starchy Samoan crops.