Due to the sharp increase in international rice and wheat prices, the Bangladeshi government has ordered more than 500,000 active-duty military personnel and police officers to eat more potatoes and less grain.
According to British media reports on April 18, potatoes are not a traditional staple food for Bangladeshis. However, because of the sharp rise in grain prices, the Bangladeshi army has had to order changes in soldiers' diets, increasing their potato intake since they are cheaper and also nutritious.