Analysis Of Dry Beans Consumption And Factors Influencing Choice Of Dry Beans In Consumers’ Food Purchasing Decisions In Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

ABSTRACT

Dry beans are an important source of protein especially among poor consumers in Tanzania. This makes dry beans a strategic food for combating malnutrition. Yet, per capita consumption of dry beans in Tanzania is relatively low. However, the reasons for low beans consumption are not well established. This study provides empirical evidence on beans consumption and factors influencing beans choice in households’ food purchasing decisions. The study used data collected by Legume Innovation Lab Project in Dar es Salaam in 2015 from random sample of 754 households. The study used both descriptive analysis and econometric models to analyze the data. Three major findings emerge from the study: First, poor households devoted large share of their income on beans consumption compared to rich households. Second, beans share was low among children below 5 years of age compared to adults among households with same income level. Third, age, household size, education level, self-employment and marital status had positive influence on beans consumption whereas household income and sex had negative influence on beans consumption in the households. The findings suggest that the efforts geared toward improving household food security and alleviating child malnutrition should place high priority on promoting consumption of beans among children below 5 years of age. Also, educational programs on the vital roles played by beans in consumers’ diet should be organized in order to promote beans consumption at household level