Understanding the drivers of diet change and food choice among Tanzanian pastoralists to inform policy and practice
Loading...
Date
2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Drivers of Food Choice
Abstract
Overall, diet patterns have changed dramatically for traditionally pastoral communities in rural Tanzania,
with younger and more sedentary communities experiencing the most significant changes.
While social and environmental changes underlie the altered food choice behaviors, proximal factors such as
cost and availability of foods dictated decisions at the point of purchase and appeared to accelerate pattern
shifts. For example, cereals, refined grains and processed foods were the most affordable and accessible food
items in the markets while traditional fruits and vegetables have declined substantially in availability over
the past several decades.
Participants expressed concern regarding these dietary shifts and implications for both social identity and
long-term health, with expressed concerns around childhood malnutrition due to reduced milk supply,
pregnancy/postpartum complications due to declining blood consumption, and increased chronic diseases
related to increased consumption of cereals, fats and oils, and soft drinks.
Participants exhibited a strong desire for enhanced land tenure policies to ensure access to quality grazing
lands and water sources.
A high value on children’s health was expressed by participants who emphasized a need for more inclusive
nutrition and health education pertaining to balanced diets.
Description
Research Brief pp. 1-2
Keywords
Diet change, Food choice, Tanzanian pastoralists, Inform policy, Practice