A linear programming approach for designing nutritionally adequate and cost-effective vegetarian diets in Nepal

Abstract

Adequate nutrition is fundamental to maintaining health and overall well-being. This study aimed to identify the cost-minimizing combination of locally available vegetarian foods in Nepal that meets the recommended dietary requirements for adults. Food items were selected based on their local availability, and price data were collected from the Kalimati Vegetable and Fruit Market in Kathmandu. A linear programming model was employed to optimize daily dietary intake across breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner, while ensuring that nutritional constraints for energy, macronutrients, and key micronutrients-including iron, calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C-were satisfied. The analysis revealed that a minimum daily expenditure of Rs. 262.2 per person is sufficient to meet all nutritional requirements, which corresponds to Rs. 1,048.8 per day for a four-member household. The study focuses solely on food costs and excludes other household expenditures such as fuel, education, healthcare, and clothing. These findings offer guidance for affordable dietary planning and can support the formulation of policies aimed at enhancing nutritional security in Nepal.