Impact of COVID-19 stress on food insecurity and fruit and vegetable consumption among college students.

Abstract

Objective: This cross-sectional study utilized structural equation modeling to examine effects of COVID-19 stress on food insecurity and fruit and vegetable consumption mediated through personal agency and behavioral intention. Participants: Students (n = 749) enrolled at one federally designated Hispanic-serving public university during the fall 2020 semester. Methods: A 34-item survey was developed and administered. Results: COVID-19 stress had a statistically significant impact on food insecurity (B = .341; p < .001) and an inverse impact on personal agency to consume fruit and vegetables (B = -.283; p < .001). Personal agency (B = .389; p < .001) and behavioral intention to consume fruit and vegetables were directly associated while food insecurity inversely impacted behavioral intention (B = -.076; p = .034). Conclusions: Pandemic-related stress impacts nutrition behaviors among the student population already at risk of poor fruit and vegetable intake. During periods of high pandemic-related stress, college students need adequate access to fruits and vegetables and health promotion programs emphasizing stress management and healthy dietary behaviors.