Vol. 8 No. 5 (2026): Volume 08 Issue 05

Household food expenditure remains a critical determinant of nutritional outcomes and economic stability in developing economies. In Nigeria, rising food prices, income variability, and structural inefficiencies have intensified the need for optimized food spending strategies. This study develops a framework-based analytical model for optimizing household food expenditure in Lafia, Nasarawa State, using principles of linear programming and behavioral economics. Drawing on empirical insights and theoretical foundations from existing literature, the study integrates cost-minimization techniques with nutritional adequacy constraints to propose a sustainable expenditure optimization system. The methodology combines socio-economic data patterns with optimization models to identify efficient consumption bundles. Findings indicate that structured optimization frameworks can significantly reduce household food costs while maintaining nutritional balance. However, behavioral, cultural, and infrastructural constraints limit the full adoption of such models. The study contributes to the literature by offering a context-specific, scalable framework for food expenditure optimization and highlights policy implications for improving food security and economic resilience in Nigeria.