Effect of economic growth on nutrition in a tropical community

In order to assess the effect of agricultural development on nutrition, surveys were made both prior to, and following the implementation of an extensive agricultural programme in a tropical area. Over a period of 13 years, agricultural production increased almost sixfold, whereas in the same period the population only doubled. It was found that the average food intake rose significantly, but this change was the result of the economic impact of the higher income group. Approximately 30 percent of the population, comprising the poorest peasants, showed no improvement in food intake so the prevalence of malnutrition in the area was virtually unchanged. Thus, in 1958, 26.1 percent of children under 5 years of age showed second and third degree malnutrition; in 1971 this proportion dropped to only 22.5 percent. It follows that agricultural development alone does not necessarily alter the feeding pattern of low income peasants nor does it prevent malnutrition.