Abstract:
Dry beans are an important source of protein especially among poor consumers in
Tanzania. This makes dry beans a strategic food for combating malnutrition. Yet, per
capita consumption of dry beans in Tanzania is relatively low. However, the reasons for
low beans consumption are not well established. This study provides empirical evidence
on beans consumption and factors influencing beans choice in households’ food
purchasing decisions. The study used data collected by Legume Innovation Lab Project in
Dar es Salaam in 2015 from random sample of 754 households. The study used both
descriptive analysis and econometric models to analyze the data. Three major findings
emerge from the study: First, poor households devoted large share of their income on
beans consumption compared to rich households. Second, beans share was low among
children below 5 years of age compared to adults among households with same income
level. Third, age, household size, education level, self-employment and marital status had
positive influence on beans consumption whereas household income and sex had negative
influence on beans consumption in the households. The findings suggest that the efforts
geared toward improving household food security and alleviating child malnutrition
should place high priority on promoting consumption of beans among children below 5
years of age. Also, educational programs on the vital roles played by beans in consumers’
diet should be organized in order to promote beans consumption at household level.
