The ownership and use of small kitchen domestic appliances by a Cypriot population

The nutritional habits of consumers have become a cause for concern with an increasing number of people suffering from diseases related to nutrition. In Cyprus, traditionally the Mediterranean diet was consumed, which was protective against coronary heart disease. Recently the incidence of coronary heart disease is increasing and has become a cause for concern. The way in which food is prepared may contribute to the nutritional content of the diet. Traditional methods of cooking and eating are being influenced by increased ownership of domestic appliances. The aim of this study was to carry out a cross‐sectional survey of people living in Cyprus to determine the ownership and use of small kitchen appliances. An opportunistic sample of 300 female subjects was recruited. Data were collected using a self‐completion questionnaire consisting of questions concerning personal details, cooking techniques, and the ownership and use of domestic appliances. The Liverpool John Moores University Ethics Committee granted ethics approval for the study. The majority of Cypriots were found to spend more than 2 h cooking each day. Toasters, sandwich makers, kettles and juice makers were owned by over 75% and microwave ovens, food processors and blenders by over 50% of Cypriots. Those with a professional occupation were significantly more likely to own crepe and pancake makers, electric grills, coffee makers, blenders and food mixers (P < 0.05). There were no significant associations between age groups and ownership of any of the domestic appliances. The results indicated that a considerable number of Cypriots own and use small domestic kitchen appliances. The use of these appliances may contribute to a tendency for this population to move away from their traditional diet. The relationship between usage and nutrient intake remains to be investigated.