Production diversification, nutritional and dietary diversity of marginal and small farmers in Kanyakumari and Perambalur districts of Tamil Nadu

This study assesses production diversification, nutritional status, and dietary diversity of marginal and small farming households in Kanyakumari and Perambalur. The study used a 7-day recall period to better understand the food habit heterogeneity, diet quality, and dietary diversity. There was a significant disparity among the districts in terms of food intake levels. Farmers in the Perambalur district have diversified their production more than farmers in the Kanyakumari district. The dietary pattern and calorie intake confirmed that the Kanyakumari district was better than the Perambalur district. Even though Kanyakumari district was not diversifying their cropping system, their nutritional security was stable, because of their excellent nutrition education and knowledge.