Resource Library: Ag-Nutrition-Health Linkages

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Africare’s Experience with VitaCow and VitaGoat Food Processing Systems

This paper reports on the experience of using Malnutrition Matters’ VitaCow (VC) and VitaGoat (VG) processing technologies in Africare country programs. VitaCow and VitaGoat are two related types of food processing machines that were designed to convert soybeans into soy milk and its derivatives as well as a variety of other foods (fruits and grains) into processed and/or preserved food products. The paper outlines the strengths and weaknesses that have been observed in applying these technologies to reduce malnutrition and promote income generation. The intent is that lessons learned and recommendations presented here will inform future installations of VitaCow and VitaGoat technologies in Africare programs and those of other Cooperating Sponsors.

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A Review of Empirical Evidence on Gender Differences in Non-Land Agricultural Inputs, Technology, and Services in Developing Cou

This paper reviews existing microeconomic empirical literature on gender differences in use, access, and adoption of non-land agricultural inputs in developing countries. This review focuses on four key areas: (1) technological resources, (2) natural resources, (3) human resources, and (4) social and political capital. In general, there has been more empirical research on inorganic fertilizer, seed varieties, extension services, and group membership than on tools and mechanization, life-cycle effects, and political participation. Across input areas, generally men have higher input measures than women; however, this finding is often sensitive to the use of models that control for other background factors, as well as the type of gender indicator implemented in the analysis.

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A Field Guide for On-Farm Experimentation

Experimental aspects of on-farm research should help on-farm researchers arrive at solid conclusions, taking into account, rather than eliminating, variation among farmers. The objective of this type of applied agricultural research is to identify new farming practices and materials that will improve the farmers’ production system and increase their productivity and well-being in a way that is sustainable.

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A Deal for New School Gardens

Governments and international development partners are increasingly interested in school gardens. These have traditionally been used for science education, agricultural training or generating school income. Today, given the urgent need for increased food security, environmental protection, more secure livelihoods and better nutrition, perceptions of the potential of school gardens are changing with the belief that school gardens can become a foundation for a nation’s health and security.

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A Review of Empirical Evidence on Gender Differences in Non-Land Agricultural Inputs, Technology, and Services in Developing Cou

This paper reviews existing microeconomic empirical literature on gender differences in use, access, and adoption of non-land agricultural inputs in developing countries. This review focuses on four key areas: (1) technological resources, (2) natural resources, (3) human resources, and (4) social and political capital. In general, there has been more empirical research on inorganic fertilizer, seed varieties, extension services, and group membership than on tools and mechanization, life-cycle effects, and political participation. Across input areas, generally men have higher input measures than women; however, this finding is often sensitive to the use of models that control for other background factors, as well as the type of gender indicator implemented in the analysis.

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Africare’s Experience with VitaCow and VitaGoat Food Processing Systems

This paper reports on the experience of using Malnutrition Matters’ VitaCow (VC) and VitaGoat (VG) processing technologies in Africare country programs. VitaCow and VitaGoat are two related types of food processing machines that were designed to convert soybeans into soy milk and its derivatives as well as a variety of other foods (fruits and grains) into processed and/or preserved food products. The paper outlines the strengths and weaknesses that have been observed in applying these technologies to reduce malnutrition and promote income generation. The intent is that lessons learned and recommendations presented here will inform future installations of VitaCow and VitaGoat technologies in Africare programs and those of other Cooperating Sponsors.

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bringing_agriculture_to_the_table_chronic_disease.pdf

This report offers an integrated look at agriculture, food, nutrition, and the growing threat of diet-related chronic diseases. It presents analysis and recommendations suggesting that the farm and food systems across the globe are dynamic and robust, capable of producing adequate food to meet people’s needs for the foreseeable future, but in need of signifi cant course corrections as well.

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Case Definition of Livestock Diseases

This manual presents case definitions for 15 priority livestock diseases that have significance in terms of food security, public health, and international trade. Where possible, the case definition is complemented with photos of clinical signs and postmortem lesions.