Food Habits & Consumption Pattern of Bhil Tribe of Udaipur, Rajasthan

The Bhils commonly known as the desert dwellers are the largest tribal group in the Aravali belt of Rajasthan. It is believed that they are the oldest inhabitants of Indian continent. This is the third largest tribal group of Indian sub-continent. The term Bhil is said to have been derived from Tamil word 'Bhilawar' or a Bow man. They live in nuclear families and are highly individualistic. In India, the general health status of the tribal populations is known to be poor because of their dependence on primitive agricultural practices and irregularity of food supply. The study was carried out in 100 families of Jhadol and Girwa panchayat samiti of Udaipur district. Their diet was found grossly inadequate in pulses, other vegetables, fats & oils and fruits, whereas adequacy for sugar and green leafy vegetables was found more than recommended dietary intake (RDI). Diet of Bhils were found inadequate in all nutrients except protein, carbohydrate, ascorbic acid and zinc and regarding food habits of Bhils they are developed as a part of their social and cultural heritage. Food availability, economics and personal food meanings and beliefs are the primary factors of influence.