BEAN GRAIN CHARACTERISTICS AND PRICES PAID AT RETAIL MARKETS IN UGANDA: IMPLICATIONS FOR BEAN BREEDING

Abstract

Bean grain size and color characteristics are investigated to determine their effect on prices paid at consumer markets in Uganda. A price equation that include measures of these characteristics along with market location, grain supply, and marketing month variables is estimated for fresh (high moisture) and dry beans. Neither grain size nor color are found to have a significant impact on either fresh or dry bean prices. Bean breeders should thus not use grain color or size as important indicators of consumer preferences unless strong tradition indicates otherwise. Variation in market prices paid is more a function of market location and month of sale than characteristics of the grain.