Seasonal consumption and contribution of indigenous leafy vegetables to household food security and daily recommended intakes in a rural community in Ndwedwe, KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

Food insecurity remains a significant challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. Improving food security in rural South Africa can be achieved by assisting smallholder farmers, offering agricultural loans, providing competent agricultural services, and promoting the consumption of indigenous leafy vegetables (ILVs). Studies indicate that ILVs can alleviate food and nutrition insecurity while enhancing dietary diversity, particularly among rural families. However, ILVs are still underutilised. This study investigated the seasonal patterns of ILV consumption and their role in household food security and daily nutrient intake recommendations in Mangangeni village, Ndwedwe, KwaZulu-Natal. A group of 118 participants (aged 18 and older) was selected through snowball sampling. Various questionnaires were employed, including those for demographic information, food frequency, 24-hour food recall, and food coping strategies. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27, utilising descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA for comparative analysis. The findings revealed that women (62.7%) primarily handled food preparation. Many participants were unemployed and relied on family members for essential needs. ILVs such as Bidens pilosa, blackjack, black nightshade, and amaranth were mainly foraged from the wild, household gardens, or farms. Households regularly consumed approximately six ILVs, with most participants eating them at least once or twice a week. All participants perceived ILVs as healthy, cheaper than other vegetables, tasty, beneficial for preventing and regulating illnesses, high in nutrients, quick to cook, and energy-giving. Seasonal shifts in ILV consumption were noted, with higher levels in summer and spring and a decrease in autumn and winter due to limited availability. Nutrient intake assessments revealed high carbohydrate consumption and imbalances in micronutrients. The most common strategy for coping with food insecurity involved choosing less expensive foods, while the least common strategy was consuming seed stocks intended for planting. While ILV consumption is influenced by seasonal availability, the results indicate that ILVs are crucial for mitigating food insecurity in rural South Africa. Enhancing access to ILVs year-round and promoting a balanced diet could improve dietary intake and diversity.