According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), food security means access by all people at all times to enough food for an active and healthy life. University Health & Wellbeing acknowledges that limited food availability and reduced quality or variety of food can disrupt eating patterns and hinder academic success.
The USDA categorizes food security into different levels based on the degree of food access areas:
High food security: No problems or limitations with food access.
Marginal food security: Some anxiety about food sufficiency or a shortage of food in the house, but little or no change to food intake
Low food security: Reduced quality, variety, or desirability of food intake
Very low food security: Disrupted eating patterns resulting in reduced food intake (USDA, 2016).
The terms “low to very low food security” are often referred to as “food insecurity.”
Food security encompasses not just the quantity of food but also its quality, variety, and appeal, which are crucial for good nutrition. Ensuring reliable, ongoing access to nutritious and enjoyable food is vital for achieving food security.
With the rising costs of higher education, many college students face financial challenges that make it difficult to afford adequate food. Research indicates that food insecurity can be a substantial barrier to academic success.
