A balanced diet is crucial for reducing hunger and malnutrition, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Small farmers in these regions are encouraged to grow a variety of crops to ensure a diverse diet. However, a new study published in Nature Food challenges this recommendation. Researchers from the University of Bonn found that access to regional markets may be more important than individual farmers growing a wide range of crops on their own smallholding. The study analyzed data from nearly 90,000 households in Africa between 2008 and 2022, revealing that market access plays a significant role in increasing food variety locally.
Many people, particularly in poorer countries, lack dietary variety on their plates, leading to health issues. Small-farm households, which constitute a large portion of the malnourished population, are typically encouraged to cultivate various foods for their own consumption. However, the research conducted at the University of Bonn indicates that while greater diversity on farmers’ fields does have a positive impact on diet quality, its effect is minimal. Instead, ensuring good access to local and regional markets is crucial, allowing farmers to sell surplus food and purchase foods they lack.
The study highlighted that local and regional markets are already vital for a healthy diet in farm households, with own production only accounting for roughly one third of the foods consumed on average. Improved infrastructure and market access can significantly enhance diet quality by enabling households to access a wider range of food products. Additionally, focusing on crops that thrive in local conditions and selling any surplus food is more beneficial than growing a broad spectrum of crops on individual farms, which can be disadvantageous due to the specialized expertise required for each crop.
The researchers emphasize that diversification at a regional level is more important than diversity on every single farm. By promoting access to markets where a wide range of foods are available, households can purchase a variety of products rather than needing to grow everything they need for a healthy diet themselves. This approach not only benefits individuals by improving their diets but also supports economic development through the division of labor and increased trade. While it is still essential to diversify crops to reduce risks for farmers and promote sustainability, the focus should be on improving market access and infrastructure in these regions.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of access to local and regional markets in enhancing diet quality and reducing malnutrition in small-farm households. Rather than relying solely on farmers to grow a diverse range of crops, ensuring good market access can provide communities with a wider variety of foods and support economic development. By promoting a regional approach to food diversity and encouraging trade in local markets, policymakers and stakeholders can work towards improving nutrition and health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries.