The food security and the eating behavior of the civilian population during the military conflict in Ukraine: a preliminary research

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to evaluate not only changes in eating behavior and food security parameters of the civilian population experiencing war but also the likelihood of developing a number of eating disorders against this background.Design/methodology/approachThis descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in March–April 2022 using the Google Forms tool among adult residents of Ukraine. The questions included four categories: general demographic data and body mass index (BMI); the question of the most frequently consumed food groups since the beginning of the invasion; SCOFF questionnaire; and questions to assess the state of food security.FindingsA change in eating behavior was reported by 72.3% of respondents. SCOFF screening showed two or more positive responses for 42.7% of respondents. For respondents who were not in active hostilities areas, only 25.0% reported positive results. The average pre-war BMI was within the normal range, which suggests that the majority of respondents did not have problems with food security. The study shows that 74.9% of respondents believe they have an unbalanced diet. About 40% of respondents were cutting back on meals or skipping meals, and 50% reported running out of food and not being able to restock. These facts indicate that most respondents experienced food insecurity after the invasion.Research limitations/implicationsThe resulting quantitative sample structure of respondents was not optimal for such studies. But taking into account the rather difficult state of the country and the conditions of the population in it, the expansion of the sample in combat areas was quite seriously limited. Therefore, the use of a limited sample should probably be considered a reasonable and practical choice for conducting research.Originality/valueThe results indicate deep problems with food security, a sharp change in eating behavior under the pressure of circumstances and, as a consequence, the appearance of a high probability of the development of eating disorders in the future.