Spatial analysis of aquatic food access can inform nutrition-sensitive policy

Aquatic foods are critical for food and nutrition security in Malawi, but it is unclear which populations benefit from different aquatic foods and what factors shape food access. Spatial analysis of food flows across value chains from Lake Malawi to domestic consumers shows that usipa (Engraulicypris sardella) reaches more consumers than chambo (Oreochromis karongae) across all Malawi districts, particularly rural populations. Higher number of markets, nutrient content, and overall supply coupled with lower retail prices and volumes make usipa more accessible to consumers than chambo. Spatial analysis of food flows can guide policymakers towards supporting fisheries that reach vulnerable populations and designing interventions that enhance physical and economic access to fish.

Automated summary

Aquatic foods play a critical role in food and nutrition security in Malawi. A spatial analysis of food flows reveals that usipa reaches more consumers than chambo, especially in rural areas, due to factors such as higher number of markets, nutrient content, and overall supply, as well as lower retail prices and volumes.