This study investigates the nutritional and health-related significance of small indigenous fish species (SIS) in rural Bangladesh, with a focus on consumption patterns, nutrient intake, and the socio-ecological determinants of SIS consumption. The analysis underscores their potential role in mitigating micronutrient deficiencies and enhancing food security among vulnerable populations.
Utilizing two waves of panel data from the Bangladesh Integrated Household Survey (2011-12 and 2018-19), the study employs an Ecological Systems Theory framework integrated with fractional logit models and instrumental variable probit regressions to evaluate both the drivers of SIS consumption and its impact on health outcomes.
Findings indicate that households led by more highly educated individuals are significantly less likely to consume SIS, with decreases of 0.71 points in consumption incidence and 1.40 points in consumption share. Conversely, SIS consumption share increases by 0.15 points among households participating in social safety net programs and by 0.03 points with greater residential distance from primary roadways, both effects are statistically significant at the 5% level. Importantly, a higher proportion of SIS in the total fish intake is associated with a reduced incidence of reported illness, highlighting the substantial health benefits of SIS consumption.
Policy implications include the strategic integration of SIS into aquaculture systems and culturally responsive nutrition initiatives to enhance dietary diversity and reduce nutritional inequities. Reforms in education and expansion of social safety programs are recommended to facilitate sustainable dietary improvements. Future research should address cultural perceptions, nutrient bioavailability, long-term health outcomes, and market viability of SIS seed distribution.
Scaling up SIS production and consumption will require coordinated action across agricultural, health, education, and aquaculture sectors. This includes mobilizing NGOs for community outreach, fostering academic partnerships for innovation, and engaging private sector actors to develop resilient and inclusive supply chains.