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Landry MJ, Heying E, Qamar Z, Hagedorn-Hatfield RL, Savoie-Roskos MR, Cuite CL, Zigmont VA, OoNorasak K, Chen S. Advancing college food security: priority research gaps. Nutr Res Rev 2024; 37:108-120. [PMID: 37158045 DOI: 10.1017/s0954422423000094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Despite over a decade of both quantitative and qualitative studies, food insecurity among US college/university students remains a pervasive problem within higher education. The purpose of this perspective piece was to highlight research gaps in the area of college food insecurity and provide rationale for the research community to focus on these gaps going forward. A group of food insecurity researchers from a variety of higher education institutions across the United States identified five thematic areas of research gaps: screening and estimates of food insecurity; longitudinal changes in food insecurity; impact of food insecurity on broader health and academic outcomes; evaluation of impact, sustainability and cost effectiveness of existing programmes and initiatives; and state and federal policies and programmes. Within these thematic areas, nineteen specific research gaps were identified that have limited or no peer-reviewed, published research. These research gaps result in a limited understanding of the magnitude, severity and persistence of college food insecurity, the negative short- and long-term impacts of food insecurity on health, academic performance and overall college experience, and effective solutions and policies to prevent or meaningfully address food insecurity among college students. Research in these identified priority areas may help accelerate action and interdisciplinary collaboration to alleviate food insecurity among college students and play a critical role in informing the development or refinement of programmes and services that better support college student food security needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Landry
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Emily Heying
- Department of Nutrition, College of Saint Benedict & Saint John's University, Saint Joseph, MN, USA
| | - Zubaida Qamar
- Department of Family, Interiors, Nutrition and Apparel, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Mateja R Savoie-Roskos
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Cara L Cuite
- Department of Human Ecology, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Victoria A Zigmont
- Department of Health, Exercise Science, and Recreation Management, School of Applied Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
| | - Kendra OoNorasak
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Susan Chen
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science, and Packaging, San José State University, San José, CA, USA
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Wolfson JA, Insolera N, Laska MN, Leung CW. High Prevalence of Food Insecurity and Related Disparities Among US College and University Students From 2015-2019. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2024; 56:27-34. [PMID: 37999695 PMCID: PMC10841716 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2023.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined food insecurity prevalence among college students included as part of a large, ongoing, nationally representative survey and examined trends and associations with sociodemographic measures. METHODS Data come from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, a nationally representative longitudinal household panel survey, and include 2,538 college students from 2015-2019. Food security status was assessed using the US Department of Agriculture's 18-item Household Food Security Survey Module. RESULTS From 2015 to 2019, 11% of college students experienced marginal food security, and 15% experienced food insecurity. Food insecurity was 12% in 2015 and 14% in 2017 and 2019. More Black and Hispanic students experienced food insecurity than White students (21% and 26%, vs 9%, respectively; P <0.001), as did first-generation than non-first-generation students (18% vs 10%; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS College food insecurity is an urgent public health issue demanding greater response from colleges and universities and state and federal governments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Wolfson
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD; Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD.
| | - Noura Insolera
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Melissa N Laska
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Cindy W Leung
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI
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McGuire CM, Stebleton MJ, Lenk KM, Lust K, Porta CM, Laska MN. Trade-Offs Faced by 2-and 4-Year College Students Experiencing Food Insecurity: An Analysis of Qualitative Data. Am J Health Promot 2023; 37:1133-1140. [PMID: 37606579 DOI: 10.1177/08901171231184074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To understand the trade-offs, defined as compromises or decisions students must make to prioritize one important need over another, as a result of economic constraints, food insecure (FI) college students experience and the perceived impact of these challenges on health, well-being, and academic achievement. DESIGN 8 Semi-structured focus groups. SETTING Seven 2- and 4-year Minnesota colleges. PARTICIPANTS 53 students initially screening positive for FI. METHOD The focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis, a systematic approach for identifying and analyzing patterns across qualitative data, was used through four analysis phases to identify themes and categories. RESULTS We identified five themes within trade-offs: sacrificing food, missing out on relationships, sacrificing academic studies, choosing between basic needs, and maintaining physical and mental well-being. The trade-offs students described were multifaceted, caused notable stress and worry, and presented challenges to students' well-being. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence on the complexities of FI among students and details on what students may be sacrificing as a result of making trade-offs. Understanding the trade-offs students are experiencing can help college staff to prioritize which issues to focus on to improve student health and academic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cydney M McGuire
- Paul H. O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Michael J Stebleton
- Department of Organizational Leadership, Policy and Development, College of Education and Human Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kathleen M Lenk
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Katherine Lust
- Boynton Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Carolyn M Porta
- School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Melissa N Laska
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Larson N, Mason SM, Bruening M, Laska MN, Hazzard VM, Neumark-Sztainer D. Adverse childhood experiences and food insecurity in emerging adulthood: findings from the EAT 2010-2018 study. Public Health Nutr 2023; 26:2343-2354. [PMID: 37431646 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023001349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Low childhood socio-economic status (SES) and adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are associated with poor health outcomes in adulthood. Determining how ACE may be linked to food insecurity among young people from socio-economically diverse households can inform health-protective strategies. This study examined if ACE are associated with food insecurity during the transition to adulthood and investigated prevalence differences across SES strata. SETTING Participants were recruited from twenty secondary schools in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota. PARTICIPANTS The analytic sample (n 1518) completed classroom surveys in 2009-2010 (mean age = 14·5 years) and follow-up surveys in 2017-2018 (mean age = 22·0 years). DESIGN Past-year food insecurity was reported at both time points, and ACE were reported at follow-up. Logistic regression models were used to estimate emerging adult food insecurity prevalence by ACE exposure; models were stratified by childhood SES (low, middle and high). RESULTS The adjusted prevalence of food insecurity was 45·3 % among emerging adults who reported three or more ACE compared with 23·6 % among those with one or two ACE and 15·5 % among those with no ACE (P < 0·001). All forms of ACE were related to an elevated prevalence of food insecurity in emerging adulthood. ACE-food insecurity associations were strongest for emerging adults from lower and middle SES households. Among emerging adults from low SES households, childhood experiences of emotional abuse and substance use by a household member were associated with the largest prevalence differences in food insecurity. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest a need for trauma-informed services within food assistance programs to better serve individuals with a history of ACE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Larson
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Suite 300, 1300 South Second Street, Minneapolis, MN55454, USA
| | - Susan M Mason
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Suite 300, 1300 South Second Street, Minneapolis, MN55454, USA
| | - Meg Bruening
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Health and Human Development, Penn State, 110 Chandlee Lab, University Park, PA16802, USA
| | - Melissa N Laska
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Suite 300, 1300 South Second Street, Minneapolis, MN55454, USA
| | - Vivienne M Hazzard
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Suite 300, 1300 South Second Street, Minneapolis, MN55454, USA
| | - Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Suite 300, 1300 South Second Street, Minneapolis, MN55454, USA
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Bruening M, Laska MN. Position of the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior: Food and Nutrition Insecurity Among College Students. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2023; 55:699-709. [PMID: 37656095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2023.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Meg Bruening
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, The College of Health and Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA.
| | - Melissa N Laska
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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Batchelder HR, Drake C, Johnson T, Alfaro JM, Phillips RG, Szigethy T, DelVecchio M, Zhang K, Snyderman R. Risk factors of food insecurity among students at diverse post-secondary education institutions: a cross-sectional examination. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37725537 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2252520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identify the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) and compare sociodemographic, mental, physical, behavioral, and environmental risk factors for FI among students at a private university, community college, and historically black college or university (HBCU). PARTICIPANTS Adult students attending a private university, community college, or HBCU (n = 4,140) located within the southeastern United States. METHODS Using an online survey (2017-2019), FI, sociodemographic, mental, physical, behavioral, and environmental data were collected to understand their association with FI. RESULTS Up to 37.1% of students experienced FI. Identifying as black, other/multi-racial, having poor sleep, federal loans, depressive symptoms, high stress, social isolation, or a chronic condition were associated with FI. These associations varied by institution. CONCLUSIONS FI is prevalent within diverse post-secondary institutions that serve traditional and nontraditional students with risk factors varying between institutions. The prevalence of FI and risk factors can inform institutional policy responses to ameliorate the effects of FI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather R Batchelder
- Duke Center for Personalized Health Care, Office of the Chancellor Emeritus, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Connor Drake
- Duke Center for Personalized Health Care, Office of the Chancellor Emeritus, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tyler Johnson
- Duke Center for Personalized Health Care, Office of the Chancellor Emeritus, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jorge M Alfaro
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ruth Gilliam Phillips
- Student Health and Counseling, North Carolina Central University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Thomas Szigethy
- Students Affairs, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Marina DelVecchio
- Department of English and Communications, Durham Technical Community College, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kate Zhang
- Students Affairs, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ralph Snyderman
- Duke Center for Personalized Health Care, Office of the Chancellor Emeritus, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Enriquez JP, Ader D. Examining food security among minority student groups, with particular attention on diversity and inclusion. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37000436 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2172581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To identify signs of food insecurity (FI) and coping strategies among university students from three minority groups. Participants: Participants consisted of 3155 university students: 25.58% first-generation, 16.86% nonwhite, and 4.63% international. Methods: Students answered a questionnaire composed of the 2-item Hunger Vital Sign for food security, and questions about demographics, food campus resources, and coping strategies. Results: Among the three minorities, most students (53-57%) reported being food insecure. The food insecurity status was associated with being a senior, or graduate student, having participated in high school food programs, and use of university food resources in all minority groups. Also, a variation in the use of coping strategies to obtain food was reported among minority groups. Conclusion: There is a need to articulate minorities' awareness and use of the university's nutritional resources to face the high rates of FI. Campus initiatives should focus on the reality of underserved populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Pierre Enriquez
- Smith Center for International Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Agriculture, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - David Ader
- Smith Center for International Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Agriculture, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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8
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Matthews CR, Rodriguez AX, Kabiri LS, Perkins-Ball AM, Perkins HY, Diep CS. Dietary behaviors and food insecurity among Houston college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022:1-7. [PMID: 36170520 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2122722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college students' nutrition, including dietary behaviors and food security status. Participants: Participants included 140 students between 18 and 25 years of age, who were enrolled in a college or university in the greater Houston area. Methods: Analyses included descriptive statistics, t tests, and ANOVAs to analyze differences in dietary behaviors by demographic variables, and chi-square tests to assess characteristics associated with food security status. Results: The majority of participants reported changing their diets due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There were no significant differences by demographics. However, there were significant differences in food security status by race/ethnicity and social class. Conclusion: This study identified changes and disparities in college students' dietary behaviors and food security status during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings help inform future policy, programs, and research to address college students' nutrition during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura S Kabiri
- Kinesiology Department, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Heidi Y Perkins
- Kinesiology Department, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
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Hagedorn‐Hatfield RL, Richards R, Qamar Z, Hood LB, Landry MJ, Savoie‐Roskos MR, Vogelzang JL, Machado SS, OoNorasak K, Cuite CL, Heying E, Patton‐López MM, Snelling AM. Campus‐based programmes to address food insecurity vary in leadership, funding and evaluation strategies. NUTR BULL 2022; 47:322-332. [DOI: 10.1111/nbu.12570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rickelle Richards
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science Brigham Young University Provo Utah USA
| | - Zubaida Qamar
- Family, Interiors, Nutrition and Apparel (FINA) San Francisco State University San Francisco California USA
| | - Lanae B. Hood
- Department of Nutrition, Health and Human Performance Meredith College Raleigh North Carolina USA
| | - Matthew J. Landry
- Stanford Prevention Research Center Stanford University Palo Alto California USA
| | | | - Jody L. Vogelzang
- School of Interdisciplinary Health, Allied Health Sciences Grand Valley State University Grand Rapids Michigan USA
| | - Stephanie S. Machado
- Department of Public Health & Health Services Administration California State University Chico California USA
| | - Kendra OoNorasak
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition University of Kentucky Lexington Kentucky USA
| | - Cara L. Cuite
- Department of Human Ecology School of Environmental and Biological Sciences Rutgers University New Brunswick New Jersey USA
| | - Emily Heying
- Department of Nutrition College of Saint Benedict & Saint John’s University Saint Joseph Minnesota USA
| | | | - Anastasia M. Snelling
- Department of Health Studies American University Washington District of Columbia USA
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10
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Hagedorn-Hatfield RL, Hood LB, Hege A. A Decade of College Student Hunger: What We Know and Where We Need to Go. Front Public Health 2022; 10:837724. [PMID: 35284399 PMCID: PMC8913502 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.837724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The first article on college food insecurity, published in 2009, sparked conversation on the dark secret many students face while seeking a college degree; they do not have secure access to food. Over 10 years later, numerous investigators around the globe have reported on the heightened prevalence of college food insecurity, the correlates that increase risk, and the detrimental outcomes associated with not having a secure source of food. In this manuscript, we describe the decade of research devoted to college food insecurity and provide direction for research, programs, and policies moving forward. Replicable and valid data collection methods must be utilized, campus-based program evaluation implemented and disseminated, and evidence-based policies supported to achieve realistic goals of warding off hunger and food insecurity on college campuses as well as improve the lives of individuals after post-secondary education. Collectively, stakeholders on college campuses as well as off-campus advocates can be the catalyst to creating a nutritionally secure environment and it is imperative that food insecurity be prevented on college campuses to ensure college students are able to achieve degree attainment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Hagedorn-Hatfield
- Department of Nutrition, Health, and Human Performance, Meredith College, Raleigh, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Rebecca L. Hagedorn-Hatfield
| | - Lanae B. Hood
- Department of Nutrition, Health, and Human Performance, Meredith College, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Adam Hege
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, United States
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Hernandez DC, Daundasekara SS, Walton QL, Eigege CY, Marshall AN. Feasibility of Delivering an on-Campus Food Distribution Program in a Community College Setting: A Mixed Methods Sequential Explanatory Investigation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:12106. [PMID: 34831861 PMCID: PMC8619067 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite community college students experiencing food insecurity there has been a dearth of research conducted on the feasibility of providing a program designed to increase access to fruits and vegetables among community colleges. This study used a mixed methods sequential explanatory design to examine the feasibility of delivering an on-campus food distribution program (FDP) to community college students and to examine the association between FDP and food insecurity and dietary intake. The study also explored the student's experiences related to barriers and facilitators of program utilization. In phase one, the FDP occurred for eight months and students could attend twice per month, receiving up to 60 pounds of food per visit. Online questionnaires were used to collect students' food security and dietary intake. Among the 1000 students offered the FDP, 495 students enrolled, with 329 students (66.5%) attending ≥ 1. Average attendance = 3.27 (SD = 3.08) [Range = 1-16] distributions. The FDP did not reduce food insecurity nor improve dietary intake. In phase two, a subsample of students (n = 36) discussed their FDP experiences through focus groups revealing three barriers limiting program utilization: program design and organization, personal schedule and transportation, and program abuse by other attendees. Facilitators to greater program utilization included: the type of food distributed and welcoming environment, along with allowing another designated individual to collect food. To maximize program use, it is suggested that reported barriers be addressed, which might positively influence food insecurity and dietary intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne C. Hernandez
- Cizik School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (S.S.D.); (A.N.M.)
| | - Sajeevika S. Daundasekara
- Cizik School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (S.S.D.); (A.N.M.)
| | - Quenette L. Walton
- Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77004, USA; (Q.L.W.); (C.Y.E.)
| | - Chinyere Y. Eigege
- Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77004, USA; (Q.L.W.); (C.Y.E.)
| | - Allison N. Marshall
- Cizik School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (S.S.D.); (A.N.M.)
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12
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Landry MJ, Gundersen C, Eicher-Miller HA. Food Insecurity on College and University Campuses: A Context and Rationale for Solutions. J Acad Nutr Diet 2021; 122:519-524. [PMID: 34718223 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2021.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Landry
- Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford Prevention Research Center, Palo Alto, CA.
| | - Craig Gundersen
- Baylor University, Baylor Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty (BCHP), and Department of Economics, Waco, TX
| | - Heather A Eicher-Miller
- Purdue University, College of Health and Human Sciences, Department of Nutrition Science, West Lafayette, IN
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13
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Larson N, Alexander T, Slaughter-Acey JC, Berge J, Widome R, Neumark-Sztainer D. Barriers to Accessing Healthy Food and Food Assistance During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Racial Justice Uprisings: A Mixed-Methods Investigation of Emerging Adults' Experiences. J Acad Nutr Diet 2021; 121:1679-1694. [PMID: 34294591 PMCID: PMC8373666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2021.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background A steep rise in food insecurity is among the most pressing US public health problems that has resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective This study aimed to (1) describe how food-insecure emerging adults are adapting their eating and child-feeding behaviors during COVID-19 and (2) identify barriers and opportunities to improve local food access and access to food assistance. Design The COVID-19 Eating and Activity Over Time study collected survey data from emerging adults during April to October 2020 and completed interviews with a diverse subset of food-insecure respondents. Participants/setting A total of 720 emerging adults (mean age: 24.7 ± 2.0 years; 62% female; 90% living in Minnesota) completed an online survey, and a predominately female subsample (n = 33) completed an interview by telephone or videoconference. Main outcome measures Survey measures included the short-form of the US Household Food Security Survey Module and 2 items to assess food insufficiency. Interviews assessed eating and feeding behaviors along with barriers to healthy food access. Analyses performed Descriptive statistics and a hybrid deductive and inductive content analysis. Results Nearly one-third of survey respondents had experienced food insecurity in the past year. Interviews with food-insecure participants identified 6 themes with regard to changes in eating and feeding behavior (eg, more processed food, sporadic eating), 5 themes regarding local food access barriers (eg, limited enforcement of COVID-19 safety practices, experiencing discrimination), and 4 themes regarding barriers to accessing food assistance (eg, lack of eligibility, difficulty in locating pantries). Identified recommendations include (1) expanding the distribution of information about food pantries and meal distribution sites, and (2) increasing fresh fruit and vegetable offerings at these sites. Conclusions Interventions of specific relevance to COVID-19 (eg, stronger implementation of safety practices) and expanded food assistance services are needed to improve the accessibility of healthy food for emerging adults.
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14
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Hiller MB, Winham DM, Knoblauch ST, Shelley MC. Food Security Characteristics Vary for Undergraduate and Graduate Students at a Midwest University. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5730. [PMID: 34073623 PMCID: PMC8197841 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The study objective was to determine prevalence of food insecurity and its associations with socioecological model (SEM) characteristics for undergraduate and graduate students. An online questionnaire was distributed to a convenience sample of students aged 18-34 at a Midwestern university. Of the 938 responses, 675 were complete for analysis. Outcome measures included demographics, food security level, housing, food access barriers, coping strategies, and food assistance program usage. Results found that predictors associated with undergraduate food insecurity included non-White race, receipt of financial aid, lower self-reported health status, living off-campus, employment, and food cost (p < 0.001). Graduate student food insecurity was associated with Asian self-identification, employment, food cost, no time to prepare foods, and lack of foods for dietary needs (p < 0.001). Students with food insecurity were more likely to buy cheap food (p < 0.001). Almost 50% of food-insecure undergraduates asked friends or family to help buy food. Food-insecure students were more likely to want information on meal preparation and budgeting. More graduate students were likely to know of and use food pantries. Overall, food insecurity was higher among undergraduate than graduate students. Universities should consider institutional and policy changes tailored to the separate populations to mitigate the prevalence of campus food insecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly B. Hiller
- Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50010, USA; (M.B.H.); (S.T.K.)
| | - Donna M. Winham
- Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50010, USA; (M.B.H.); (S.T.K.)
| | - Simon T. Knoblauch
- Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50010, USA; (M.B.H.); (S.T.K.)
| | - Mack C. Shelley
- Department of Political Science, and Department of Statistics, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50010, USA;
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Mialki K, House LA, Mathews AE, Shelnutt KP. Covid-19 and College Students: Food Security Status before and after the Onset of a Pandemic. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13020628. [PMID: 33672058 PMCID: PMC7919459 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
While the Covid-19 pandemic has increased the number of food insecure households in the United States (US), it is unclear how it has affected college student food security status. College students are ineligible for many Covid-19-related economic relief programs and may find it even more difficult to cope during the pandemic. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify and describe the prevalence of food insecurity at a public university before and after the onset of Covid-19 as well as factors associated with any change in food security. Researchers administered a cross-sectional, non-probability survey to college students (n = 3206) that assessed food security status prior to and after the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as questions related to various sociodemographic characteristics. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Thirty-eight percent of students experienced a change in food security as a result of the pandemic, with 59.6% becoming less food secure, and 40.4% becoming more food secure. Characteristics that were associated with changes in food security included changes in housing and employment status as a result of the pandemic. These findings suggest that the pandemic led to changes in food security among college students, and that economic relief efforts should include college students, who are disproportionately affected by food insecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaley Mialki
- Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (K.M.); (A.E.M.)
| | - Lisa A. House
- Food and Resource Economics Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| | - Anne E. Mathews
- Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (K.M.); (A.E.M.)
| | - Karla P. Shelnutt
- Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(352)-273-3535
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Sociodemographic and health disparities among students screening positive for food insecurity: Findings from a large college health surveillance system. Prev Med Rep 2020; 21:101297. [PMID: 33643812 PMCID: PMC7893485 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Food insecurity among college students has begun to be recognized as a pressing social issue. However, much of the research in this area to date is limited by factors like small sample sizes and convenience sampling. The objective of this study was to assess sociodemographic and health disparities among two- and four-year post-secondary students screening positive for food insecurity, using one of the largest relevant health surveillance databases available. This study included analyses of pooled annual data (2015-2018; n = 13,720) from students participating in state-based surveillance of 27 two- and four-year Minnesota post-secondary institutions. Food security was determined using a validated two-item screener. Disparities were examined across numerous factors including: sociodemographic, economic, academic, institutional, nutrition and weight-related health risk and resiliency. In total, 24% of students experienced food insecurity. Findings highlighted stark disparities, with notably high positive screening rates of food insecurity among non-Hispanic Black (43%), transgender/non-binary (42%) and first-generation (33%) students. Food insecurity was significantly associated with nearly every adverse health factor examined, despite controlling for demographics (p < 0.0001). Overall, these findings represent one of the largest peer-reviewed studies of college food insecurity to date and underscore robust differences between who experiences food insecurity and who does not. They also highlight troubling health risks that accompany food insecurity. Importantly, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened these realities. To inform prevention efforts, additional research is urgently needed, including cohort studies, controlled trials, and quasi-experimental research based on rigorous evaluation of policy initiatives now being considered at institutional, state and federal levels.
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