In the sprawling archipelago of Indonesia, a stark contrast in food access has emerged, particularly when it comes to beef consumption. A recent study led by Nazaruddin La Ode, a researcher at the Doctoral School of Economic and Regional Sciences, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) – Szent István Campus, has shed light on the disparities between the eastern and western parts of the country. The findings, published in the journal ‘Open Agriculture’, reveal that while Indonesia as a whole boasts relatively good food security, the eastern, low-income regions face significant challenges in accessing beef.
The study, which surveyed 408 meat consumers across both high and low-income regions, uncovered that residents in eastern Indonesia purchase beef less frequently due to low incomes and high prices. This irregular consumption pattern is not just a matter of personal choice but a reflection of deeper economic and geographical factors. “People in the eastern part of Indonesia are not only purchasing beef less frequently but also have irregular consumption habits,” La Ode explains. “This is largely due to the high prices and low incomes in the region.”
The research also validated an extended model proposed by Turner and colleagues, which considers variables like price, income, geographical factors, and food purchase behaviors. This model, when applied to the Indonesian context, proved effective in understanding the complexities of food access. “The model’s workability under a moderation test with limited variables shows that it can be a valuable tool for policating and future research,” La Ode adds.
The implications of this study extend beyond academic circles. For the energy sector, understanding food access and consumption patterns can influence policy decisions and investment strategies. For instance, improving food accessibility in low-income regions could reduce the need for energy-intensive food imports, thereby promoting sustainable development and aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
The study’s findings also highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve food accessibility in marginal and coastal regions. By addressing the root causes of irregular beef consumption, such as high prices and low incomes, policymakers can work towards creating a more equitable food system. This could involve subsidies, infrastructure development, or initiatives to boost local beef production.
As the world grapples with food security challenges, this research offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of food access in developing countries. By bridging the gap between economic theory and practical application, La Ode’s work paves the way for future developments in the field. It underscores the importance of considering regional disparities and economic factors when designing food policies, and it serves as a call to action for stakeholders in the energy sector to play a more active role in promoting sustainable food systems.