Impact of bushmeat consumption on health risk management in Southern Benin

The consumption of bushmeat has been linked to several socioeconomic factors. This study examines bushmeat consumers in southern Benin, including their motivations, health risks, and groups. In the Littoral, Atlantique, and Zou districts, 373 people were surveyed. The data were analyzed with R 4.0.2 and SAS 2013 software, and as a result, 74.3% reported consuming bushmeat. Few hunters and transformers were in Group 1, but many were in Group 2. Group 1 consisted of hunters, processors, and restaurant owners, whereas Group 2 was mostly illiterate. Bushmeat is eaten for its taste, nutritional value, and economic and cultural reasons, with many believing it is healthier than domestic meat. Group 1 and Group 2 consume bushmeat frequently and live in peri-urban and rural locations near woods for easy access to bush animals. Group 3, which eats bushmeat rarely, is less involved in the supply chain of bushmeat. Due to poor transit and processing conditions, bushmeat hunting, processing, and consumption in these places expose people to pathogens and increase the risk of food poisoning and zoonotic diseases. Education of local residents is necessary to improve food safety and reduce health concerns. Diversifying income, promoting safer, more sustainable practices, and encouraging rural youth education require supportive policies. To improve Benin's food security and public health, this study stresses bushmeat consumers' motivations. Key words: Bushmeat, food security, consumption, zoonoses, Benin.