Hedhili, AmelAkinyemi, Babatope EbenezerOtunola, Gloria AderonkeHusson, FlorenceValentin, Dominique2026-02-152026-02-152022Akinyemi BE; Otunola GA; Hedhili A; Husson F; Valentin D (2022): Food habits and beliefs about Moringa oleifera among South African student mothers: a qualitative study: Cahiers Agricultures, 31(22). https://doi.org/10.1051/cagri/20220201777-5949http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11837/3710The problems of malnutrition constitute a major challenge in South Africa, particularly affecting the underprivileged populations ofthe EasternCape and Limpopo provinces. The present study aimedto gain an understanding of how to improve the nutritional intake of South African university student mothers and their children bytheintroduction ofMoringa oleifera intheir food. Focus Group Discussion wasimplemented attwo previously historically disadvantaged universities with predominantly black student populations, namely the University of Fort Hare and the University of Limpopo. Findings from the participants’ discussion about food habits and barriers to healthy eating show that there is a gap between healthy eating knowledge and eating habits. Despite the highlevel of awareness of the importance of nutritional intake, most of the study participants and their children consume less healthy foods. Due to the high cost of healthy food and their limited income, student mothers face substantial financial constraints when trying to make healthy changes in their food habits. Moreover, student mothers’ positive beliefs about the nutritional benefits of Moringa are insufficient to encourage its consumption. Finally, student mothers agree about using Moringa as a nutritional supplement. Maize porridge (pap) appears to be the preferred staple food for Moringa supplementation because of its palatability, satiating power, availability, affordability, and ease of preparation.enMoringa oleiferaSouth Africafocus groupfood habitsstudent mothersArticle