Transforming Food Systems For Better Family Nutrition Amidst Global Economic Downturn In Zuru Community of Kebbi State

The global economic downturn has significantly disrupted food systems, leading to nutritional challenges, especially among vulnerable households. This study investigated the effects of the economic crisis on household food consumption patterns and diet quality in Zuru Community, Kebbi State, Nigeria. The study was guided by 4 objectives. A descriptive survey design was employed, involving 250 randomly selected respondents. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Findings revealed that 80% of households reported a decline in diet quality due to rising food prices. Food consumption frequency showed a heavy dependence on grains, with limited intake of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and dairy indicating poor dietary diversity. Although 72% of respondents believe that local food production could improve nutrition and reduce costs, only a few engaged in practices such as home gardening (16%). The findings indicate that economic pressures are driving quantity-and-quality trade-offs in household diets. The study recommends scaling community-based production (home gardens, small livestock), Awareness campaigns by advertisement agencies and the media on the importance of dietary diversity and low-cost nutritious meal planning; and empowering farmers and small-scale growers through skills training, provision of incentives and funding can promote small-scale food production and local food markets. These actions would help restore dietary diversity and reduce the short-term and longterm health impacts of the current economic stressors.