The iTaukei are of Melanesian decent and have occupied the islands for more than 3000 years (Gravelle, 1979). As the original inhabitants, they account for 56% of the population and have retained 89 per cent of land ownership.

Non-urban iTaukie mostly live in villages under a chiefdom structure. Each village has an elected headman who acts as a liaison between the village and government agencies.

The main income sources for iTaukei are agriculture, tourism, remittances and government services.

Fiji is transitioning to a western diet and is 18th in the world for the prevalence of diabetes and 24th for obesity. Non-communicable diseases are greater in urban populations where food must be purchased. There is largely enough food but limited access (high poverty rates) force people to eat low quality food. Rural populations produce some but not all of their food and as they focus upon cash crops they are beginning to consume more convenient imported foods such as rice and flour products.

Cultural norms demand iTaukei openly share what they have with family, neighbours and those in need, which partly drives people to not save or store food beyond a day or two supply.