A study conducted by Snapbizz and London Business School (LBS) has shed light on the vital connection between shopping behaviour and nutrition in slum communities. The research, led by renowned faculty members Kamalini Ramdas and Ali Aouad from LBS, focused on encouraging healthier shopping habits in low-income Indian communities, specifically in Mankhurd, Mumbai.
Snapbizz, a Bengaluru-based company providing innovative solutions for neighborhood Kirana stores, played a crucial role by leveraging its cutting-edge technology to track purchase data in these communities. The study revealed that subsidizing cereals can significantly enhance healthier eating habits in slum communities.
The findings, utilising data collected by Snapbizz, indicated that a significant portion of grocery expenditures in these communities is allocated to snacks, sugar, and soft drinks, with spending on these items rivaling that of primary staples like rice and wheat. This highlights the urgent need to reshape dietary choices and habits in economically underserved communities.
Of particular significance was the success of the subsidy for cereals, which resulted in a decrease in snack purchases. This demonstrates the potential of targeted interventions to promote healthier choices, particularly among shoppers residing in families with children, thereby improving the eating habits of future generations. However, the study also revealed that the subsidy for millet, an ancient and nutritious grain, had the least uptake, indicating the need for consumer education on the benefits of low-cost, protein-rich foods.
"We firmly believe that investing in healthy eating within lower economic strata is not solely about the individuals or families involved; rather, it contributes significantly to nation-building and holds long-term economic implications," said Mr. Prem Kumar, Founder of Snapbizz. "With various campaigns, initiatives, and incentives, we can spread awareness and make people understand the importance of nutritious and adaptive eating habits, leading to a healthy lifestyle."
The success of this collaborative effort between Snapbizz and London Business School highlights the potential for scaling up these interventions to create a lasting impact on the nutritional well-being of slum communities across India. Both organizations are committed to expanding their initiatives, campaigns, and incentives to raise awareness and drive the adoption of nutritious and healthy eating habits in low-income Indian communities.
This strategic partnership holds the promise of transforming the lives of countless individuals, contributing to the nation's economic well-being, and fostering a healthier future. Snapbizz and London Business School are enthusiastic and invite increased support from organizations to participate in collaborative initiatives aimed at making a substantial impact on a broader scale.
(With input fromn PTI)