Dairy product consumption in South Korea

The per capita daily consumption of dairy products increased approximately 2450% in South Korea from 1969 to 1987. The purpose of the present study was to determine the frequency with which urban South Koreans consume 10 common dairy products, and to find the socio-economic group most responsible for the increase in dairy product consumption. Data were collected on the dietary patterns and socio-economic backgrounds of 923 women, 880 children and 772 men in urban areas. This study showed that seven of 10 dairy products investigated were consumed evenly by both sexes, all age groups and income levels. However, three recently-introduced products (i.e. cheese, ice cream and butter) were found to be consumed most frequently by young Koreans in the high income level.