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Breaking Barriers to Nutrition: Policy Pathways for Sustainable Fruit and Vegetable Access and Consumption in Kenya
(AERC, 2025) Cheserek, Maureen Jepkorir; Ouko, Kevin; Chagwiza, Clarietta; Opondo, Florence Achieng’; Korir, Mark
Gender disparities shape consumer purchasing patterns for fruits and vegetables (F&Vs) in urban retail markets. Women predominantly buy from informal markets, while men prefer the formal retail outlets, underscoring the need for genderresponsive retail and infrastructure planning. Fruit and vegetable consumption among Kenyan adults remains critically low, despite accessibility to formal and informal retail markets. Only 3.1% of women and 4.5% of men meet the recommended daily intake of five or more servings, highlighting the need to address barriers related to affordability, awareness, and access. Expanding access to safe, inclusive, and conveniently located markets is essential, particularly in underserved areas with limited availability and access to fresh and affordable nutritious foods. Gender-responsive policies and market regulations are vital to achieving equitable food environments. Strengthening these frameworks will promote fairness in retail access and support healthier consumer choices. Targeted consumer education and behaviour change initiatives are needed to boost fruit and vegetable intake. Investing in tailored awareness and nutrition campaigns can foster sustainable improvements in dietary habits.