Abstract Qualitative and quantitative dietary patterns were studied as indicators of seasonal changes in household food security in north-western Benin. Introduction In many developing countries, especially in Africa, farmers depend mainly on their own production for their food supply. In unimodal climates this means that crops grown in one short rainy season yield the yearly supply of food. As a consequence, food availability is not constant throughout the year, and farmers often experience a food-insecure period just before the new harvest. Seasonal fluctuations in food availability and household responses to this insecurity can influence individual consumption patterns.
Quantitative changes consider actual contributions to energy and protein intake.
Findings from studies concerned with intro-household food distribution are not conclusive. The study was conducted in the commune of Manta in north-western Benin. A unimodal climate ensures seasonal fluctuations in food availability. Annual rainfall is 1,300 mm, concentrated between May and September. The region is part of the Guinean-Sudanian savannah with scattered trees.