The year 2024 marks a period of significant change in fresh produce consumption in Africa. A recent study reveals marked trends and preferences for fruits and vegetables across the continent, directly influencing dietary habits.
Fresh produce consumption in Africa : General overview
Africa, rich in climatic diversity and agricultural resources, makes fresh produce a crucial part of its diet. A survey conducted in June 2024 by SagaPoll, involving 16,300 people across 30 African countries, highlights the prominence of fruits and vegetables in regional diets. This study emphasizes the importance of fresh produce and the variations in consumption from one country to another.
Fruits : Key element of the diet
According to the survey, 81 % of respondents consume fruits several times a week. Bananas, oranges, apples, and mangoes are the most popular. Bananas, in particular, are consumed by 66 % of participants, especially in East Africa (Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda). Oranges, consumed by 56 % of the panel, are popular in Botswana, Madagascar, Kenya, Congo, and Tanzania. Apples, consumed by 44 % of respondents, are especially favored in Southern Africa (Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe).
Vegetables : Even higher consumption
Vegetables are consumed even more frequently than fruits. Indeed, 87% of respondents report consuming vegetables several times a week, with an average of five different varieties. Tomatoes, onions, carrots, and cabbage are the most popular. Tomatoes dominate in Algeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Morocco, and Kenya, while onions are preferred in Ghana, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Botswana, and Algeria. Carrots are highly consumed in Senegal, Rwanda, Morocco, Botswana, and Algeria.
Regional preferences analysis
The consumption of fresh produce varies significantly by region, reflecting culinary diversity and local agricultural conditions. For instance, East Africa shows a strong preference for bananas, while Southern Africa favors apples. This diversity indicates not only climatic variations but also cultural and economic influences on dietary habits.
Factors influencing consumption
Several factors influence fresh produce consumption in Africa. Access to markets, storage conditions, and local agricultural practices play crucial roles. For example, fresh fruit and vegetable markets are more developed in urban areas, offering a greater variety of products to consumers. In contrast, rural areas may have limited access, directly affecting consumption habits.
Impact of inflation on consumption
Inflation also significantly impacts fresh produce consumption. In 2023, price increases led to adjustments in consumers’ food choices. Fresh produce, often more expensive, sees its consumption fluctuate based on economic variations. Consumers sometimes turn to cheaper alternatives or reduce their consumption of certain fresh products for budgetary reasons.
Outlook for 2024 and beyond
In 2024, fresh produce consumption in Africa will continue to grow, supported by initiatives to improve market access and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Governments and non-governmental organizations are investing in storage and transport infrastructure, aiming to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure better distribution of fresh produce.
Fresh produce consumption in Africa in 2024 presents a dynamic landscape influenced by economic, climatic, and cultural factors. Fruits and vegetables remain essential components of diets, with marked regional variations. The impact of inflation and initiatives to improve access to fresh products will play crucial roles in future trends. By continuing to monitor and analyze these developments, we can better understand and address the continent’s food needs.
