Challenges and Considerations in Seafarer Feeding in the Merchant Navy: A Literature Review

Abstract

This literature review explores the challenges and considerations related to nutrition among seafarers in the merchant marine. Proper nutrition is crucial for the health, well-being, and productivity of seafarers, significantly impacting their physical and mental health as well as operational safety on board. Seafarers face unique working conditions, including extended periods at sea, social isolation, and demanding physical and mental tasks. Historically, access to fresh and varied food has been limited during long voyages, leading to diets that are often high in processed foods and low in fresh produce, which increases the risk of nutritional deficiencies and diet-related diseases such as scurvy in the past, and obesity and cardiovascular diseases more recently.

The review identifies that inadequate nutrition not only affects seafarers' physical health but also has negative implications for mental health, contributing to issues such as depression and anxiety. Moreover, poor diets can impair cognitive performance, increase fatigue, and elevate the risk of operational errors, thereby jeopardizing crew safety. Current regulations, such as the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006), mandate minimum standards for food quality and availability on board; however, the actual implementation varies, and challenges remain due to logistical constraints and the cultural diversity of the crews.

This study underscores the need to improve dietary provisions on merchant vessels by addressing logistical challenges, cultural diversity, and regulatory compliance to ensure balanced diets that meet the nutritional needs of all crew members. The findings highlight the critical relationship between diet, mental and physical well-being, and operational safety in the maritime context. There is a clear need for updated research that reflects the current realities of culturally diverse crews and evolving operational demands, which will help inform policy and improve nutritional standards in the merchant marine industry.