From food availability to nutritional capabilities: Advancing food security analysis. (April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Burchi, Francesco; De Muro, Pasquale
• Is Part Of: Food policy. Volume 60(2016)
• Page Start: 10
• Page End: 19
• Publication Date: 2016-04
• Subjects: Food security -- Capability approach -- Human development -- Livelihood -- Entitlement -- Low-income countries; Food supply -- Periodicals; Food security -- Periodicals; Food -- Quality -- Periodicals; Food Supply -- Periodicals; Alimentation -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 338.1905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.foodpol.2015.03.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-9192

Abstract

Highlights: We provide a comprehensive review of different approaches to food security analysis. We sort out the differences among entitlement, livelihood and capability approach. We highlight the value added provided by the human development/capability approach. We propose a methodology for analysing food security through this approach. We suggest a three steps procedure to identify the root causes of food insecurity. Abstract: This paper has a threefold objective. First, it provides a comprehensive review of different approaches to analysing food security. Second, it highlights the added value provided by the capability approach and the human development paradigm. Third, it proposes a methodology to assess food security through this approach. Our proposal entails three basic steps: (1) analysis of food entitlements; (2) analysis of nutritional capabilities and (3) analysis of the capability to be food secure. In this way, we can move beyond income, entitlement or livelihood related frameworks, and identify the root causes of food insecurity. Food insecurity can be the result of a lack of education, health or other basic capabilities that constitute people's wellbeing. This, therefore, allows situating the study within the broader area of wellbeing and development.