COMSUMPTION PATTERN OF SHEEP AND GOAT MEAT IN IBADAN METROPOLIS: IMPLICATION FOR FOOD AND NUTRITION POLICIES

Abstract

The study examines the consumption pattern of sheep and goat meat in Ibadan Metropolis and its implication for food and nutrition policies. Cross sectional data were collected from 121 households in Ibadan metropolis with a view of analyzing the functional relationship between sheep and goat meat consumption and some socio economic variables of the household. The study revealed income to be a major determinant of household goat meat consumption while other factors like household size, age and educational status. Were secondary determinants. On the other hand, income was not a significant factor in household sheep meat consumption. Rather, household size, age and educational status, price of substitute and taste were major determinants. The regression results showed income to be statistically significant at 1% (Pc0.01) and 5% (Pc0.05) for goat. Household size and educational status were significant at 1%   (P<O.QIZ while age was significant at 5% (P<0.05) for both meat types. However, taste coeficients were negative for sheep meat. The elasticities with respect to explanatory variables were inelastic for household size, age, price of sheep/goat and price of substitute this implying that-explanatory variables are important factorsvand necessary condition'determining the consumption of sheep and goat. The findings of the study point to the need for redistribution of income to favour the low income group. There is also a need for increasing domestic production of sheep and goat in the country through deliberate government efforts and the participation of the private sectors and NGO's in development plans.