The Role of Businesses in Providing Nutrient-Rich Foods for the Poor: Two Case Studies in Nigeria

Abstract

This report presents case studies of two Nigerian food-processing businesses and analyses their efforts to produce nutrient-rich foods for undernourished populations. It provides lessons for other businesses, and for donors, government agencies and NGOs that are committed to working with the private sector to tackle nutritional deficiencies. The companies examined are Lisabi Mills and Dala Foods, businesses which have pioneered successful and innovative strategies in food manufacturing. Lisabi Mills has been at the forefront of developing packaged traditional foods and fortified products in southern Nigeria, while Dala Foods is a leading manufacturer of packaged traditional foods in the northern part of the country. The two businesses use different models: Lisabi Mills focuses on premium and fortified products aimed primarily at middle- and upper-income consumers, while Dala Foods produces low cost products for a market where most consumers have limited spending power.