Paper short abstract:

This study analyzes the relationship between food-sharing behavior and residents' values in urban Senegal, and to clarify the motivations behind eating together with non-household members. Food-sharing also plays a role in strengthening social cohesion through the sharing meals.

Paper long abstract:

In urban Senegal, many households practice food-sharing with people outside the family, as part of food consumption behavior. Traditionally, food-sharing has been common in rural areas of Africa. However, even though it is practiced by many residents in urban areas, the motivations behind this practice are not known. The purpose of this study is to analyze the food-sharing behavior of residents in urban Senegal, where the population is currently rapidly expanding, and to clarify the psychological factors that motivate people to engage in food-sharing.

In this study, we conducted a dietary and value survey of urban households in Saint-Louis, a local city in Senegal. First, we collected data of food-sharing behaviors among diverse urban residents based on their actual dietary records. At the same time, we investigated household members’ values based on Schwartz's theory of values. The survey results revealed that many female-headed households and households with elderly members showed a tendency to participate in food-sharing. Furthermore, the background of the food-sharing behavior was influenced by values that emphasize the importance of being socially correct and a preference for a challenge and taking risks in life. These values may be a factor in encouraging food-sharing behavior. It is assumed that the food-sharing behavior of urban residents plays a significant role in improving food security for people who do not have sufficient access to food and nutrients in African cities, where being urbanized.