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Article History

Received: 14 July 2025

Accepted: 30 December 2025

First Online: 3 February 2026

Declarations

:

: This study received approval from the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) Institutional Review Board (Protocol No. EPHI-IRB-493–2022) and followed the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki [ ]. Electronic records of verbally obtained informed consent were collected from all participating mothers or caregivers prior to the interviews. Children were not directly approached for data collection, and their dietary information was provided entirely by mothers or caregivers; therefore, parental consent was obtained for their participation. Interviews took place in settings chosen by the participants, with ample time given to explain the study and address any concerns. Trained interviewers handled sensitive topics carefully, and participants were informed they could skip any questions they preferred. No monetary incentives were provided; however, each household received two bars of soap to promote hygiene. Participant confidentiality was strictly maintained throughout the study.

: Not applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests