Main description:

This publication points out that properly managed livestock can play a role in addressing malnutrition, notably through greater integration between the livestock and nutrition sectors.

It summarizes some of the current thinking on how livestock and animal-source foods can address the nutritional needs of vulnerable households and groups. It also outlines recommendations for designing and implementing livestock interventions to leverage nutrition outcomes while supporting livelihoods.

The livestock sector plays a crucial role in the social and economic development of a country, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Livestock are a direct and indirect source of food for rural and urban households. In fact, it is estimated that animal-source foods contribute 18% of global food energy consumption and 34% of global protein consumption.