Evolution of Dietary Habits and Cultural Implications in Rural Households of the Haut-Nkam Region (Western Cameroon)

Abstract

In a context of territorial dynamics marked by urbanization, population growth, mobility, and the interconnectedness of urban and rural areas, a complex interplay of cultural practices is observed. It is within this overall dynamic process that dietary habits are changing. The objective of this study is to demonstrate how the evolution of dietary practices in the Haut-Nkam region impacts its food traditions. To achieve this objective, 393 households in Haut-Nkam, specifically in the localities of Bafang, Bana, and Kekem, completed a questionnaire designed to analyze the evolution of dietary habits and their impact on local food culture. This article, through a mixed-methods survey collecting quantitative and qualitative data, reveals a restructuring of the population's food consumption patterns. It is characterized by low consumption of local dishes (60% of households cook traditional local dishes less than three times a month), changes in meal preparation and seasoning methods, and the marginalization of local beverage consumption in favor of industrially produced sugary and alcoholic drinks. This shift in household diets is leading to a weakening of local culinary traditions and the cultural identity of the Haut-Nkam region. The study argues for the promotion of indigenous food products and practices in order to reconcile modern food practices with cultural sustainability.