Journal of Food Security

Proportion and Factors Associated with Inadequate Fruits and Vegetables Intake in Togo: Findings from the 2021 STEPS Survey

2026-01-06

Low fruits and vegetables (FV) consumption is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Few recent studies have explored this behavior in Togo. The aim of this study was to describe FV intake and associated factors in Togo in 2021-2022. A cross-sectional study was conducted using readily available data from STEPS survey. Variables related to lifestyle habits, socio-demographic characteristics, medical history related to NCD and physical measures were extracted for analyses. Binalry logistic regression analyses were conducted and the dependent variable was the consumption of at least 5FV. A total of 3,167 adults (58.9% female) with median age 38 years, IQR [28-50] were recruited. Among recruited participants, the proportion of diabetes and HBP was 7.7% and 35.8%, respectively. Two respondents in five (37.9%) reported having physical activity and 5.4% were using tobacco. Proportion of FV intake was 25.4%, 95%CI: [24.0-27.0]. Average household income > 52 500 FCFA and being physically active were factors that increased 5FV intake. Participants aged 60-69 years old and those avoiding eating meals prepared elsewhere than at home were less likely to consume 5FV daily. FV consumption remains low in Togo and is influenced by economic and sociodemographic determinants. Multisectoral interventions are needed to change fruit and vegetable consumption behaviors based on regional availability and varieties and to help reduce the risk of developing NCDs.

Climate Smart Agricultural Practices Adoption and Its Impacts on Female Farmers in South West, Nigeria

2026-01-19

This research investigates the adoption of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices (CSAPs) and its effects on female farmers in South West Nigeria. This research examines the extent of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices (CSAP) adoption in a region susceptible to climate variability. It focuses on the determinants influencing adoption decisions and the resulting impacts on productivity and income, giving particular attention to the pivotal role of women in food production. Primary data were collected from 480 randomly chosen female farmers across the study area utilizing a multistage sampling method. Descriptive statistics, Probit regression, and the Endogenous Treatment Effect Model (ETEM) were employed to analyze the data. Findings revealed that access to extension services, education, and land ownership substantially affect adoption decisions. Moreover, individuals who adopted CSAPs exhibited increased productivity and income levels in comparison to those who did not adopt them. The study found that improving women's access to agricultural training, credit resources, and technology is essential for increasing the adoption of CSAP. Policy implications suggest that focused initiatives advocating for gender-sensitive climate resilience techniques can enhance food security and mitigate rural poverty.

Nutritional Composition and Sensory Properties of Complementary Food Produced using Grain Amaranth and Soybean

Paulina O. ADENIYI, Oluwatobi O. ADESINA, Fausiyah A. BALOGUN — 2026-03-25

Malnutrition, particularly among infants and young children, remains a persistent public health concern in many developing countries. Some cereals have been used exhaustively for complementary feeding while some like grain amaranth remain grossly underutilized. Complementary foods formulated with locally available, nutrient-rich ingredients are promising in improving nutrient adequacy during the critical complementary feeding period. This study was conducted to evaluate the nutritional composition and sensory properties of complementary food blends developed from grain amaranth flour and soybean flour. A total of five complementary food samples (GSS1–GSS5), comprising varying ratios of grain amaranth and soybean flour, were evaluated for proximate, mineral composition and sensory properties and compared to a commercial complementary food brand (CRC). Proximate and mineral compositions were compared using ANOVA (p<0.05), while sensory properties were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (p<0.05). The results showed that formulated blends contained significantly higher levels of protein (25.78%–44.67%), fat (10.54%–17.85%), and key minerals such as iron, calcium, zinc, potassium, and magnesium than the commercial control. Carbohydrate content decreased with increasing soybean inclusion, while moisture and ash contents remained within acceptable limits. Sensory evaluation indicated that all samples were acceptable across parameters including texture, aroma, and appearance, with minor variations in colour and taste. These findings suggest that grain amaranth–soybean blends have strong potential as nutrient-dense, locally sourced complementary foods capable of supporting growth, development, and metabolic health in infants. This study supports the integration of underutilized indigenous crops into complementary food formulations as a sustainable approach to combating protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies during infancy and early childhood.