Greek immigrant children in southern Sweden in comparison with Greek and Swedish children. II. Meal pattern and food habits.

Greek immigrant children (GI) belonging to the second generation of immigrants in Sweden have been compared with Swedish children (S) and Greek children in Greece (G) regarding meal pattern and food habits. Interviews were performed in the homes. Meal pattern and frequency of consumption of various food items were studied by 24-hour recalls, and the food frequency interview method. The meal pattern and the distribution of meals and snacks during the day did not show large differences between the groups. In the GI and G groups it was common to start the day with milk and sugar. The same habit was reported before going to bed. It was common in the GI and G groups to have a prepared meal (dinner) relatively late in the evening. Of the S children only 55% had dinner. GI children had a less frequent intake of vegetables compared to S and G children. GI and G children were heavy consumers of sweets and snacks. In conclusion, the Greek immigrant group had food habits similar to those of Greek rural children with few distinctive exceptions. Greek immigrant families had no difficulties in preparing Greek food.