© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
WKAR 90.5 FM
All Things Considered
WKAR 90.5 FM
All Things Considered
Next Up: 6:00 PM Fresh Air with Terry Gross
0:00
0:00
All Things Considered
WKAR 90.5 FM
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

MSU researcher examines health impact of changing African diets

Scott Pohl/WKAR

From pumpkin pie and mashed potatoes to eggnog and Christmas cookies, the holiday season is filled with delicious food, but it isn’t exactly great for our waistlines. The holiday excess might already have you thinking about that New Year’s diet. Dr. Dave Tschirley thinks about diets all the time, but not for himself. He’s with the Food Security Group in MSU's Department of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics. They’re studying how the diets of people in Africa are changing dramatically as the continent becomes more urbanized.As Africans move to cities, they are getting more of their calories from processed, packaged foods. Current State talks with Dr. Tschirley about his recent research trip to Mozambique.

This segment was produced with support from the Global Center for Food Systems Innovation.

Related Content
Support Local Journalism in Mid-Michigan

WKAR delivers fact-based, independent journalism—free and accessible to all. No paywalls, no corporate influence—just trusted reporting that keeps our community informed. Your support makes this possible. Donate today.