Is investing in food small and medium enterprises a viable path to improved nutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa? A multidisciplinary perspective

Abstract

Through the perspectives of impact investors, and the nutrition community, this paper explores whether impact investment in food-related small and medium enterprises (SMEs) creates a viable path to improved nutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa. From the nutrition perspective, investment in food SMEs could help address coexisting multiple forms of malnutrition by shifting nutritional quality of available foods. From the investor perspective, attractiveness of investment in food SMEs depends on financial risks, how costs are passed on to consumers, and probability of impact. Clear nutritional objectives and investment criteria are needed, as well as research to maximize the potential of this innovative approach.