ABSTRACT
Food consumption patterns depend upon a variety of factors, such as changes in tastes and preferences, affordability and availability. Food basket also differs from region to region and also across the income groups. This paper examines the broad food consumption patterns of the Indian population in rural and urban areas, over a period of time and at the across the income/expenditure deciles and across the regions at the average level. The aim is to see if the diets are adequate in calories protein and other essential micronutrients. The paper also tries to provide explanations for the major changes occurring in the dietary patterns and the consequences of such changes.
