Food
10 most expensive staple foods to buy in Nigeria
Nigeria’s Food inflation climbed to 40.53% in April 2024, according to the Consumer Price Index report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
This represented a 15.92% increase from the 24.61% food inflation rate recorded in April 2023.
However, Nigeria’s month-on-month food inflation declined in April for the second consecutive time following five months of consistent increase dating back to October 2023.
Monthly food inflation in April stood at 2.50%, a decline from the 3.62% recorded in March 2024 when year-on-year food inflation reached 40.01%.
Nigeria, with its diverse cuisine and rich culinary heritage, has seen significant fluctuations in the prices of staple foods over the past year.
Based on the recent data from the NBS, here are the 10 most expensive staple foods in Nigeria as of April 2024:
10. Rice Agric Sold Loose
Rice agric sold loose has seen a significant rise in prices with a 135.62% increase YoY, making it one of the top ten most expensive staple foods in Nigeria. The average price of 1kg of rice was N631.50 in April 2023, which increased to N1,487.91 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the average price rose from N1,378.84 to N1,487.91, reflecting a 7.91% MoM increase.
The highest prices were recorded in Niger state at N1,984.18, while Benue state had the lowest at N1,078.73. This rise is indicative of broader trends affecting rice production and distribution in Nigeria.
9. Chicken Feet
Chicken feet, a popular delicacy in Nigeria, has experienced a substantial YoY increase of 138.58%. The price was N1,115.29 in April 2023, which surged to N2,660.90 in April 2024. This represents a 9.04% increase from March 2024, when the price was N2,440.35.
The highest price was found in Abuja at N5,507.95, significantly higher than the lowest price of N1,005.10 in Bauchi state. This price surge reflects the rising demand and possible supply constraints affecting chicken feet.
8. Plantain (Ripe)
Ripe plantains, essential in many Nigerian dishes, have seen a 144.68% YoY price hike. The price was N412.39 in April 2023, increasing to N1,009.05 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the price rose from N947.35 to N1,009.05, representing a 6.51% MoM increase.
The highest prices were observed in Cross River at N1,380.87, whereas Yobe state had the lowest prices at N560.81. The price increase underscores the high demand for plantains and the challenges in maintaining stable supply chains.
7. Irish Potato
The price of Irish potatoes has surged by 149.18% YoY. The price was N567.29 in April 2023, rising to N1,413.57 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the price increased from N1,254.45 to N1,413.57, reflecting a 12.68% increase from the previous month.
Ondo state recorded the highest price at N2,000, while Borno had the lowest at N653.73. This significant rise is influenced by seasonal factors, transportation costs, and possibly localized production challenges.
6. Rice Medium Grained
Medium-grained rice prices have risen by 151.95% YoY. The price was N609.57 in April 2023, increasing to N1,535.83 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the price rose from N1,438.07 to N1,535.83, marking a 6.8% increase from March 2024.
The highest prices were recorded in Ogun state at N1,899.91, while Kano state had the lowest at N1,164.35. The steady increase in prices reflects broader trends in the rice market, including production costs and demand fluctuations.
5. Yam Tuber
Yam, a staple in many Nigerian households, has experienced a 154.19% YoY increase. The price was N444.69 in April 2023, rising to N1,130.37 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the price rose from N1,068.78 to N1,130.37, representing a 5.76% MoM rise.
Cross River state had the highest price at 1,797.15, while Bauchi state had the lowest at N638.64. The price increase highlights the essential nature of yams in Nigerian cuisine and the pressures on supply chains.
4. Rice Local Sold Loose
Local rice prices have climbed by 155.93% YoY. The price was N546.76 in April 2023, increasing to N1,399.34 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the price rose from N1,340.74 to N1,399.34, a 4.37% increase from the previous month.
Niger state recorded the highest prices at N1,785.47, while Benue had the lowest at N993.72. The increase in local rice prices underscores the challenges in local production and distribution, impacting affordability.
3. Broken Rice (Ofada)
Ofada rice, known for its unique taste, has seen a 158% YoY price increase. The price was N601.61 in April 2023, surging to N1,552.18 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the price rose slightly from N1,525.75 to N1,552.18, a modest 1.73% increase.
Ogun state saw the highest prices at N2,941.81, while Zamfara had the lowest at N987.28. This substantial price rise reflects the growing popularity and limited availability of Ofada rice.
2. Plantain (Unripe)
Unripe plantain prices have soared by 168.29% YoY. The price was N372.89 in April 2023, increasing to N1,000.41 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the price rose from N933.16 to N1,000.41, a 7.21% increase from the previous month.
The highest prices were recorded in Ondo state at N1,729.57, while Yobe had the lowest at N470. The significant increase highlights the versatile use of plantains in Nigerian cuisine and the supply challenges faced.
1. Sweet Potato
Sweet potato tops the list with an astounding 182.04% YoY increase. The price was N286.26 in April 2023, surging to N807.35 in April 2024. From March 2024 to April 2024, the price rose from N689.47 to N807.35, reflecting a 17.1% MoM increase.
Delta state recorded the highest price at N1,381.37, while Kaduna had the lowest at N387.68. The drastic price rise of sweet potatoes indicates a significant demand-supply imbalance and highlights the need for targeted interventions to stabilize prices.
Food
Five reasons to relish shrimp
Shrimp is a popular staple in seafood restaurants, next to lobster and crab.
Some species of shrimp live in estuaries, where saltwater and freshwater mix. They are often confused with prawn which is commonly found in fresh or brackish water.
The recipes for shrimp are endless but a few tasty ways to cook them include pasta and shrimp, grilled shrimp, and shrimp sauce.
Here are five of their health benefits.
Anti-ageing properties
Sunlight promotes skin ageing. Without protection, even a few minutes of exposure to sunlight and UVA may lead to wrinkles, spots, or sunburn.
Shrimp contains high levels of a certain carotenoid called astaxanthin, which is a powerful antioxidant that can greatly reduce the signs of ageing in the skin related to UVA and sunlight.
Reduces cancer risk
The seafood contains carotenoids, such as astaxanthin, which may help in reducing the risk of various types of cancer.
It also contains selenium, which is a trace mineral and has been connected to lower levels of cancer, including prostate, and lung cancer.
Eases menstrual pain
It is a source of the beneficial type of cholesterol, omega-3 fatty acids.
These will balance out the negative effects of omega-6 fatty acids and aid in the alleviation of menstrual cramps for women.
Fights hair loss
One of the minerals found in shrimp is zinc. A deficiency of zinc may cause hair loss.
Zinc plays a key role in maintaining and creating new cells, including hair and skin cells, so for those who are beginning to lose their hair.
Bone health
A deficiency in dietary proteins and vitamins can lead to the deterioration of bone quality, bone mass, strength, and overall mass, which are the main symptoms of osteoporosis.
Protein and various vitamins, such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, found in shrimp can effectively aid in the fight against bone degeneration.
Food
Eight foods to avoid on an empty stomach
What you eat first thing in the morning sets the tone for your day. After a night of fasting, your body is ready for the right kind of fuel to boost your energy and get your metabolism going.
However, some foods can cause discomfort, bloating, or irritation when eaten on an empty stomach—especially acidic ones that can be tough on your stomach lining.
On the flip side, starting your day with a balanced breakfast that includes protein, healthy fats, and fibre can keep your blood sugar steady, sharpen your focus, and give you energy that lasts.
Here are eight foods you should skip on an empty stomach:
1. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making them great for your health. But when eaten on an empty stomach, their high acidity can irritate your stomach lining. This can lead to acid reflux, bloating, or even heartburn. Plus, their tangy flavour can trigger your stomach to produce too much gastric acid, which may cause discomfort.
2. Coffee
For many, coffee is a morning ritual. However, drinking it on an empty stomach can be harsh on your digestive system. The caffeine in coffee can ramp up stomach acid production, which may cause acid reflux, heartburn, or even gastritis if there’s nothing in your stomach to balance it out. On top of that, coffee can dehydrate you, especially if it’s the first thing you drink in the morning.
3. Spicy foods
Spicy foods like chilli or hot sauce might be delicious, but they aren’t the best idea on an empty stomach. These fiery options can increase gastric acid production, which can lead to acid reflux and heartburn. Spices can also irritate the stomach lining, leaving it more susceptible to inflammation and discomfort.
4. Sugary foods
Sugary treats like pastries, sugary cereals, or sweetened drinks might seem like a quick way to start your day, but they can backfire. Eating them on an empty stomach causes your blood sugar to spike rapidly, giving you a short-lived energy boost followed by a crash. This crash can leave you feeling tired and cranky. Sugary foods can also disrupt digestion, causing bloating and discomfort.
5. Yoghurt
Yoghurt is generally considered a healthy snack, but it’s not ideal for an empty stomach. The natural acidity in yoghurt can irritate sensitive stomachs and may reduce the effectiveness of the probiotics it contains. These beneficial bacteria can struggle to survive in the highly acidic environment of an empty stomach.
6. Fried foods
Fried foods like doughnuts, French fries, or fried chicken are heavy and take longer to digest. Eating them on an empty stomach can overwhelm your digestive system, leading to bloating, indigestion, or even nausea. Their high fat content also slows down digestion, making you feel sluggish and uncomfortable.
7. Raw vegetables
Raw vegetables are undeniably healthy, but eating them on an empty stomach can be rough on your digestive system. Their high fibre content and certain enzymes can lead to gas and bloating. Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower are particularly challenging because they are harder to digest when your stomach is empty.
8. Carbonated drinks
Starting your day with soda or sparkling water isn’t the best idea. The carbon dioxide in these drinks can create gas in your stomach, leaving you feeling bloated and uncomfortable. They can also irritate your stomach lining and disrupt digestion.
Conclusion
Choosing the right foods for an empty stomach is key to starting your day on the right note. Avoiding these eight foods can help you feel more comfortable and energized. Instead, reach for options that are easy on your stomach, like oatmeal, bananas, or whole-grain toast with eggs. These choices will give you a healthy and balanced start to your day.
Food
The numerous reasons to include fibre-rich foods in your diet
Zainab Abdullahi, an Abuja-based nutritionist, has advised Nigerians to add fibre rich foods in their diets in order to reduce the risk of developing life-threatening illnesses.
Abdullahi told the NAN on Tuesday that consuming foods high in fibre helps combat diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes, among others, from deteriorating.
She explained that such foods also help to prevent constipation, control sugar level, prevent stroke as well as colon cancer.
Abdullahi described fibre as a part of plant-based foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and beans that passed through the body undigested thereby living the digestive system clean and healthy.
She noted that foods rich in fibre help ease bowel movements and as well aid in flushing bad cholesterol and harmful carcinogens out of the body.
The nutritionist differentiated types of fibre as soluble and insoluble fibre.
According to her, soluble fibre dissolves in water and helps control blood sugar level as well as reduces cholesterol, while the insoluble does not dissolve in water but helps prevent constipation as well as boost the immune system.
Abdullahi also said that eating foods high in fibre helps reduce the risk of inflammation of the intestine, haemorrhoids, gallstones, kidney stones and provides relief on individual with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
According to her, research has shown that diets high in fibre could help lower the risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux disorder, ulcers and some cancers.
The expert described soluble fibre as an important element for a healthy heart and also helps improve the cholesterol level as well as lower bad cholesterol.
“Consumption of foods such as tomatoes, leafy green, carrots, flaxseed, beans, watermelon and pawpaw, among others, are high in fibre and helps fight certain diseases.
“A high fibre diet helps reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, stroke and high blood pressure, reduce inflammation and help shed excess weight especially around the abdomen.
“Eating high fibre diets can help prevent colorectal cancer, stomach, mouth as well as helps flush toxins out of the body.
“It also aid digestion and key in maintaining healthy weight,’’ she said.
Abdullahi, therefore, urged individuals to start adding high fibre into their diets as well as increase their water intake in order to avoid uneasiness.
She, however, recommended consumption of 21 to 38 grams of fibre per day for optimal health.
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