Understanding the Drivers of Food Choice and Barriers to Diet Diversity in Madagascar

Conservation organizations in developing countries are beginning to target human health. In Madagascar, half of all children are malnourished, due to food insecurity and poor diet diversity. The purpose of this study was to assess food choice and barriers to diet diversity. Primary caregivers were recruited to participate in a cross-sectional exploratory study on food choices, food beliefs, and economic practices through a survey and focus group discussions. Important factors identified when shopping and preparing foods were cleanliness and health. Energy-dense foods were important, but diet diversity was not. Food cost, availability, and health were identified as concerns and important in decision-making. Understanding food choices is vital for developing programs targeting human health.