Malnutrition (poor nutrition) is a major public health concern in Africa. It is an imbalance in the intake of essential nutrients, and it comes in different forms, including undernutrition, overnutrition, etc. This health concern is particularly prevalent among children under the age of five and pregnant women. It affects a wide range of populations and calls for serious attention. The World Health Organization’s Africa Nutrition Report has estimated that the number of children suffering from protein and calorie deficiency has significantly increased within the continent. This has led to varying health conditions ranging from poor immune systems to stunted growth and increased risk of diseases.
The burden of undernutrition in Africa
Despite the continent’s vast agricultural potential, it is saddening that Africa still faces the problem of undernutrition. Undernutrition refers to a lack of essential nutrients needed for optimal health and growth. It includes wasting, stunting, underweight, and micronutrient deficiencies and is widespread across the world. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2018:
- 7.3% of children under five were wasted (meaning they were too thin for their height).
- 21.9% of children under five were stunted (meaning they were too short for their age).
- 45% of deaths among children under the age of 5 years were linked to undernutrition.
These highlighted figures point out the seriousness and high prevalence of undernutrition, with low- and middle-income countries being the most impacted. The figures likewise show the detrimental effects of undernutrition on child health and development. The causes of undernutrition range from poverty to infectious diseases and inadequate maternal and child feeding practices, often due to a lack of knowledge of proper nutrition.
Of the many appearances of undernutrition, protein deficiency (protein-energy undernutrition) is a leading cause of concern. This usually occurs when one does not consume the needed calories and proteins for body functioning over a long period. Traditional solutions to protein deficiency often depend on reliance on animal-based proteins. However, these are unsustainable, more expensive, and, in some cases, inaccessible. Thus, alternative proteins emerge as a more sustainable and healthier option for the future of nutrition in Africa.
The need for sustainable protein-rich foods
Traditional diets such as cereals-based, root, and tuber-based diets, passed down through generations, give an idea into the cultural legacy of various communities. However, while they are rich in cultural significance, many often fail to provide the necessary nutrients for proper health and development. This is true for protein, a vital macronutrient crucial for tissue building and repair, enzymes and hormone production, and supporting a robust immune system. It is, therefore, important that more sustainable protein-rich foods are adopted.
Alternative proteins as a tool in fighting malnutrition
Alternative proteins offer a great opportunity to our continent facing the challenges of malnutrition and the widespread prevalence of unsustainable and unethical food production. These healthier alternatives hold the potential to address malnutrition, including protein-energy undernutrition, improving food security and public health, and establishing a sustainable food system for all.
Alternative proteins like legumes, whole grains, seeds, nuts, fermented protein foods, etc., provide various protein options that make it much easier for people to meet their protein needs inexpensively. This is of immense importance to those who fall under the vulnerable categories due to age, socioeconomic, or physiological conditions.
Additionally, many alternative protein sources are rich in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamins, often lacking in traditional diets. Thus, incorporating them into diets can reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies. The fewer environmental impacts of alternative proteins compared to conventional animal agriculture make them a better protein source. This, therefore, makes it possible to address the problem of malnutrition sustainably, i.e., without creating further problems. Without a doubt, alternative proteins are instrumental in fighting against malnutrition on the continent.
Challenges and opportunities for the alternative protein industry in Africa
Though the future is bright for alternative proteins, especially in addressing the problem of protein deficiency, challenges remain. One of such is the need for increased awareness creation and education. This is important to bring people into the knowledge of these alternatives and their numerous benefits. Also, an infrastructure gap for food processing and storage exists in alternative protein production. Therefore, a call for investment to address this challenge is vital.
Candidly, our food security landscape has great potential, particularly with alternative proteins. However, teamwork is essential to fighting malnutrition in Africa and unlocking the full potential of alternative proteins. Both state and non-state actors have specific roles in addressing the problem of protein deficiency. This will thus ensure that every child and other vulnerable group has equitable access.
Conclusion
Do alternative proteins have answers to the challenge of malnutrition in Africa? This is an emphatic yes! Alternative proteins, particularly plant-based proteins, are affordable, sustainable, and rich in nutritional value. All these make alternative proteins a powerful solution to address malnutrition and pave the way for Africa’s more equitable future for food nutrients.