Seasonality of food groups and characterization of foodconsumption norms in sedentary and pastoral environments In Niger

This study aims to contribute to the analysis of food consumption in Niger. It is a descriptive cross-sectional study that included 845 households distributed according to their place of residence (urban, rural, and pastoral). The methodology used consisted of a series of surveys. The first survey (a focus group) was conducted to determine the seasonality of food products, their origin, and their use by households. In a second phase, a food survey was carried out to determine food consumption norms by incorporating the national food balance according to the method proposed by AGHRYMET (2004). The results showed that in Niger, food seasonality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Six of the eight months of the dry season (October to March) showed varying levels of availability of the products most frequently found in the population's diet. Foods primarily imported (fruits and vegetables) exhibit a particular seasonality, changing differently from other staple foods. Regarding food consumption standards, the study revealed that average food intake varies from 316.80 ± 42.55 kg to 299.38 ± 40.86 kg per person per year in urban, rural, and pastoral areas, respectively. The seasonality of food groups and food consumption standards are key factors to consider in ensuring a better food and nutritional situation for the population.