https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8264-551X
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ABSTRACT
Consumption of roots and tubers (R&Ts) among urban households can be low. Understanding factors influencing consumption decisions for R&Ts is important in enhancing their utilization. This study assessed determinants of consumer preference for selected R&Ts using a multivariate Probit model. A stratified multistage sampling technique was adopted to select 385 respondents, and data collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Irish potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) had the highest preference level (70%), followed by sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas L. Lam.) at 61%. Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea L.) had a preference of 42%. Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and yams (Dioscorea alata L.) were the least preferred at 22% each. Education, monthly income, cultural orientation, nutritional knowledge, Covid-19 pandemic, market distance, farming of R&Ts, retail prices, production location, availability of R&Ts, size, quality, taste, and preparation time influenced preferences for R&Ts by urban households. Inadequate time to prepare R&T meals at home and availability of conveniently prepared alternatives likely explains their low preference by urban residents.
Acknowledgments
We acknowledge the financial support of the Africa Economic Research Consortium that enabled this work to be completed. We recognize the cooperation of enumerators who supported the collection of data. Our appreciation also goes to consumers for their cooperation during the survey.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Data availability
The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.