The simplest, most common way to measure poverty in a country is by looking at the number of people that are unable to afford a minimum basket of goods and services. The value of this basket is based on a food bundle--which is normally aligned with national diets--required for basic healthy activity, along with an amount to cover other basic needs. This consumption basket, as it's called, defines what is called the national poverty line for a country. Learn more in this video on poverty measurement.
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