Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
A holistic food systems approach, particularly nutrition-sensitive agriculture (NSA), may be more effective in ensuring food and nutrition security (FNS) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This is the conclusion of research conducted by nutrition scientist Sabina Di Prima. Compared to NSA, traditional interventions are often fragmented and focus on direct causes.
NSA can address multiple causes of malnutrition, especially when there is synergy between program components. Local institutions play a crucial role in sustainability and scaling up. While NSA has limited impact on stunted growth and malnutrition, it does improve the quality and quantity of nutrition.
According to Di Prima, a supportive environment with flexibility, contextual relevance, and cross-sector collaboration is essential for the successful implementation of NSA, both in LMICs and in vulnerable areas of high-income countries.
Di Prima analyzed nutrition-sensitive agriculture in LMICs through literature review and case studies in Vietnam.