Dietary habits and legume use of small-scale farmers in semi-arid Africa: Cases of southern Zambia and northeastern Burkina Faso

Abstract

Nutrition is an important issue for the inhabitants of semi-arid Africa, who are highly dependent on the natural environment. This study discusses the dietary habits of smallholders in southern Zambia and northeastern Burkina Faso. Cereals were consumed year-round as a staple food, and vegetables were cooked more than animal products as a side dish. fish was the most frequently consumed protein source food. Wild plants are still important in the diet. Nutritional intake is expected to improve through revitalization of dry preservation and cultivation, and further utilization of underutilized foods and legumes.