Our recently published research explores the key to dietary diversity in rural households in southern Benin.

Our case study among 654 households revealed that those producing more plant and animal species and visiting more markets had more diversified diets. This highlights the importance of obtaining diverse foods from multiple sources, providing households with more options to achieve better diets.

Our findings call for a holistic approach that recognizes the complementary nature of market and nonmarket food sources, capitalizing on the diversity of species rural households already utilize and the ways they interact with markets.

In essence, our research shows that the recipe for better diets in rural households lies in the synergy between market and nonmarket food sources. By understanding and embracing these complementary sources, we can improve food security and dietary quality for rural populations.

The study is now online on Food Security,   the international research journal specializing on the Science, Sociology and Economics of Food Production and Access to Food.