Barriers and Enablers: A Study on the Determinants of Local Rice Consumption Among Households in Delta State, Nigeria.

Abstract:

This research explored the determinants of rice consumption in households in Delta State, Nigeria. Information was gathered from 120 individuals through a structured survey that utilized a multistage sampling approach. Descriptive data analysis including frequency distribution, percentage, mean, and 4-point Likert scale were utilized, with additional inferential statistics like multiple regression model. The results showed that the respondents had an average age of 39 years old. It was discovered that the majority of the participants, totaling 65%, were female. Additionally, it was reported that 71.67% of the participants were married. Respondents on average had 5 years of farming experience. The majority of participants were discovered to have reading and writing skills. Respondents reported an average household size of 4 individuals. It was observed that the average farm size among respondents was 0.83 hectares. The average monthly consumption of local rice was 11.83 kg. Age, education, household size, government policy, cleanliness, aroma, and availability were all factors that had a positive impact on local rice consumption, while income and the price of rice were factors that had a negative impact on it. Major obstacles to local rice consumption consisted of expensive prices, rivalry from imported rice, a preference for imported rice, restricted availability, and poor consumer knowledge. Suggestions to increase the consumption of local rice involved prohibiting the entry of foreign rice, enhancing the packaging and promotion of local rice, and guaranteeing its accessibility. To increase local rice consumption, it is advised that the government tighten restrictions on importing foreign rice.