Rising costs and limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables are increasingly steering Fijian families towards inexpensive processed foods, contributing to a surge in childhood obesity and other diet-related health challenges. Kriti Prasad, the Manager of the National Food and Nutrition Centre, emphasized that the availability and affordability of nutritious options are significant obstacles for many households across Fiji.
Prasad explained the dire situation: “Some of these children or the parents, they know what they are supposed to be feeding their child but due to unavailability, they are not able to give.” She highlighted that when families seek fresh produce at markets, often there isn’t sufficient stock or availability, further complicating their dietary choices. This trend leads to malnutrition and various health issues related to nutrition.
In addition, Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna noted that recent increases in vegetable prices are a result of off-season shortages combined with high demand and escalated production costs. He stated, “Vegetable prices are very much dependent on demand and supply. When demand is high and supply is low, prices will increase, and that cost is passed on to consumers.”
To address these pressing issues, the Ministry of Health and Agriculture has launched several initiatives, such as promoting home gardening and supporting food policy changes. These efforts aim to boost access to healthy produce and ultimately reduce diet-related health problems among the population, offering hope for a better nutritional future in Fiji.
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