How Fruit Consumption Might Be Fruitful for the Economy: Analyzing Effects of Improvements in Fruit and Vegetable Availability and Accessibility in Uzbekistan

Given the importance of healthy diet and especially the adequate intake of fruit and vegetables, the current state of inefficient agricultural production in Uzbekistan has serious adverse consequences on the yields of fruit and vegetables, and thus on income of such farmers (mostly, dehkan farms and households), and would raise the prices paid by consumers of such food products, especially in off season. The impact of higher food prices would have the most significant effect on the poorest rural people for whom the necessity of healthy food consumption is of major importance due to the poor nutritional status. The purpose of this research is, therefore, to investigate the effects of improved fruit/vegetable availability and accessibility on demand and public health in Uzbekistan. In addition, potential and existing constraints and opportunities to improve the availability and accessibility of fruit and vegetables as a key determinant of healthy diet will be explored.