[Consumption of dairy products by adults and the elderly in the south of Brazil: a population-based study].

This is a population-based cross-sectional study to evaluate the frequency of consumption of dairy products by adults and the elderly in Pelotas in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, in accordance with demographic, social and economic characteristics. Frequency of dairy product consumption was obtained by means of a questionnaire containing short, straightforward questions. Information about the type of milk (cow's milk, soy, other) and the fat contained in the milk consumed (full-cream, semi-skimmed and skimmed) was also investigated. Heterogeneity, linear trend and chi-square tests were used for the statistical analysis. The prevalence of regular dairy product consumption was 45.9%, and was 1.7 times higher among the elderly compared with 20 to 29-year-olds. Dairy product consumption frequency was higher among women, Caucasians and those with tertiary education. The economic level was significantly and inversely associated with the outcome. Nearly 98% of the sample drink cow's milk and 75.5% drink full-fat milk. About 26% of the adults do not drink milk and of these less than 20% consume dairy products daily. Dairy product consumption, especially low-fat products, should be encouraged among adults. Special attention should be given to younger individuals, males, and groups with less education and income.