Science Letters

Agricultural / Plant Sciences | Data analysis

Analysis of the Demand for Fruits and Vegetables Among Households in Nigeria

Waheed M. Ashagidigbi 1*, Alimat-Sadia Adebayo 1, Sheu A. Salau 2

1 Agricultural and Resource Economics Department, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria

2 Agriculture Global Practice, World Bank Country Office, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

The consumption of fruits and vegetables is essential in ensuring food and nutritional security due to its richness in micronutrients and vitamins. However, its consumption has always been below the recommended level in Nigeria. Thus, the need to examine the factors responsible for their low demand is germane. Data were obtained from secondary sources. Harmonized National Living Standard Survey data, collected by the National Bureau of Statistics were used. A total of 4004 respondents across rural and urban sectors were sampled. Descriptive statistics, budget share, and Quadratic Almost Ideal Demand System (QUAIDS) models were the analytical techniques adopted. The results showed that the expenditure on fruits and vegetables tends to be higher among urban households than those in rural areas. The increased price of fruits reduced the demand for vegetables. Males and older respondents consume less fruit and vegetable food group. Price stability and intensification of the awareness campaign of fruits and vegetable consumption among male, rural residents and the aged are policy options that could improve the consumption of fruits and vegetables in Nigeria.

A R T I C L E I N F O

Received

April 11, 2019

Accepted

June 05, 2019

Published

August 15, 2019

*Corresponding Author

Waheed. M. Ashagidigbi

E-mail

ashagidigbi2000@yahoo.co.uk

Phone

+2348062328579

Keywords

Expenditure elasticity

Fruits and vegetables

Food demand

Nutritional security

QUAIDS model