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Food Systems Behaviours in Lao PDR: Evidence to Strengthen Nutrition, School Meals, and Climate Resilience

  • Publication | 2026
Global Food and Nutrition Security

WFP Laos Country Office conducted formative research across six provinces in 2025 and 2026 under the leadership of the Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, with support from partners, UN agencies, donors and MAGENTA. The main research report provides the core evidence base, while five complementary documents on gendered behaviours, intersectional barriers, advocacy for reform, policy integration and media communication expand the analysis and translate findings into action. Together, the series frames nutrition as behaviour-driven systems changes, calling for coordinated reform, stronger governance and inclusive communication.

Despite progress in recent years, undernutrition remains a persistent challenge in Lao PDR, particularly among rural, low-income and ethnic groups. While nutrition knowledge and motivation have improved, food choices and nutrition outcomes continue to be shaped by poverty, seasonal food availability, time scarcity, gender roles and exposure to low-cost ultra-processed foods. This study situates nutrition behaviours within food systems and broader social and institutional environments, to understand why gaps between knowledge, intent and practice persist.

Guided by the Socio-Ecological Model, the research analyses behavioural drivers and barriers across individual, household, community, institutional and structural levels, tracing behaviours along key
journeys related to nutrition, school meals and climate-resilient, small-scale farming.

Its findings are intended to inform more inclusive, context-responsive strategies that strengthen food systems, improve nutrition outcomes and contribute to a healthier and more food-secure population in Lao PDR.

Resources
More information and links
Geographic coverageLao People's Democratic Republic
Available from

09 Sep 2026

Related organisation(s)WFP - World Food Programme
Knowledge service | MetadataGlobal Food and Nutrition Security | Food crises and food and nutrition securitySustainable Food Systems | Access to foodFood consumptionFood systems transformation
Digital Europa Thesaurus (DET)malnutritionpolicymakingMonitoringVulnerable groupsCapacity buildingModelling
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