Cost of the Diet Analysis in Samoa: An Analysis of the Cost and Affordability of Diets, Nutrient Gaps and Modelling of Interventions to Improve Diets in Samoa

Cost of the Diet Analysis in Samoa: An Analysis of the Cost and Affordability of Diets, Nutrient Gaps and Modelling of Interventions to Improve Diets in Samoa

Suva (Fiji): World Food Programme (WFP), 2025.

English

34 p.

ELR3840

doi 10.71958/wfp131033

Samoa is facing a serious nutrition crisis, with high rates of obesity, undernutrition, and micronutrient deficiencies. Nearly 80% of women are obese, and over 70% of deaths are linked to diet-related non-communicable diseases. A shift from traditional diets to ultra-processed imported foods, combined with rising food prices, has made healthy eating increasingly difficult—especially for vulnerable households. To address this, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and the World Food Programme conducted a Cost of the Diet analysis. It found that while most households can afford a basic energy-only diet, over 40% cannot afford a nutritious one. A nutritious diet costs more than four times as much, and if made entirely from local foods, it’s twice as expensive as one with imported items. The findings highlight the need to strengthen local food systems and align agriculture, health, education, and trade policies. A coordinated, multisectoral approach is essential to ensure all Samoans have access to affordable, nutritious diets.

Public

ELR 3840

eng

MON-131033