Food security in rural Bangladesh: A comparative study of scientific and grassroots perceptions

Abstract

The literature provides a comprehensive understanding of the scientific definition of food security in terms of its conceptual meaning, measurement and analysis. However, this definition contrasts significantly with the non-scientific or local understanding of food security. This article illustrates this disparity by examining the scientific definition and perception of food security in rural Bangladesh. Data was collected through qualitative research using focus group discussions and in-depth case interviews with smallholder farmers. The results reveal a significant difference between the scientific and local definitions of food security, with the latter being defined as having a sufficient supply of rice to last the entire year. Their food security is largely influenced by their socio-economic realities, coping strategies, and social networks, and the disparity in understanding of food security differs across the categories. This study highlights the importance of understanding the local perspective of food security for development practitioners, experts and policymakers, which has serious implications from a policy perspective.