ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPLICATIONS OF RISING COST OF STAPLE FOOD ON THE DAILY FEEDING PATTERN OF RESIDENTS IN BENIN CIT
Faculty
Year of Publication
Keyword
upload
Publication Type
Abstract
This study examined the consequences of increased staple food costs on the daily feeding patterns of residents in Benin City. It analyzed the magnitude of food price rises, how inhabitants have modified their feeding patterns in response, and the larger socio-economic consequences of these changes. A cross-sectional survey study design was utilized, utilizing
standardized questionnaires to gather data from individuals across different income levels. Findings predict a large rise in the cost of staple goods such as rice, beans, yam, and garri, with price hikes exceeding 70% for some items between 2023 and 2024. This escalation has led to major changes in daily dining behaviors, including a drop in meal frequency, increased dependence on cheaper food alternatives, and a shift towards less nutritional diets. Socioeconomic characteristics such as income level, household size, and occupation were found to strongly influence how residents cope with these price increases. The study also found crucial coping techniques, including engaging in new income-generating activities, substituting pricey necessities with cheaper alternatives, lowering portion sizes, and relying on financial aid from family, friends, and religious organizations. The report advises specific initiatives to alleviate the impact of rising food prices, including government policies to stabilize food costs, investment in local food production, and the introduction of food assistance programs for needy communities. Additionally, lowering transportation costs and guaranteeing food affordability depend on enhanced infrastructure and security measures. To improve citizens' food security, community-based initiatives like food banks and urban farming are also promoted.
standardized questionnaires to gather data from individuals across different income levels. Findings predict a large rise in the cost of staple goods such as rice, beans, yam, and garri, with price hikes exceeding 70% for some items between 2023 and 2024. This escalation has led to major changes in daily dining behaviors, including a drop in meal frequency, increased dependence on cheaper food alternatives, and a shift towards less nutritional diets. Socioeconomic characteristics such as income level, household size, and occupation were found to strongly influence how residents cope with these price increases. The study also found crucial coping techniques, including engaging in new income-generating activities, substituting pricey necessities with cheaper alternatives, lowering portion sizes, and relying on financial aid from family, friends, and religious organizations. The report advises specific initiatives to alleviate the impact of rising food prices, including government policies to stabilize food costs, investment in local food production, and the introduction of food assistance programs for needy communities. Additionally, lowering transportation costs and guaranteeing food affordability depend on enhanced infrastructure and security measures. To improve citizens' food security, community-based initiatives like food banks and urban farming are also promoted.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor


