Income-induced effects of COVID-19 on the food consumption pattern of Indian households

The lockdown, imposed nationwide to curb the spread of COVID-19, has disrupted economic activity and adversely affected the income of most households. The level and composition of household consumption is expected to change and create a disequilibrium in the economy through a downward shift in the demand curves of food and non-food items. The consumption pattern is likely to shift from non-essential to essential commodities. The consumption of high-value food commodities will decline comparatively higher than of staple foods. Interventions in the form of direct supplies of essential food items and cash doles will ensure the food security of the poor during the pandemic.