The Prevalence of Food Insecurity among University of Guelph-Humber Kinesiology Students

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Food insecurity is defined as inadequate access to sufficient and nourishing food (Food and Agriculture Organization [FAO], 2023). Those aged 15-24, particularly post-secondary students may have a higher vulnerability to developing food insecurity (Bhawra et al., 2021). Commuting costs and on-campus food expenses may elevate the risk among undergraduates. The purpose of this study was to measure the prevalence of food insecurity among UofGH Kinesiology students and to explore potential risk factors. We hypothesized that students living apart from their parents or primary caregivers would be more food insecure. Moreover, we predicted that many factors would contribute to higher levels of food insecurity such as employment status. Participants completed a survey consisting of socio-demographic questions and the 2021 Student Food Experience Survey (Maguire et al., 2021) to assess food insecurity. Results categorized students as secure, moderately insecure, and severely insecure. Their responses were analyzed to determine the relationship between socio-demographic indicators and food insecurity. In both the 2022-2023 school year and the Fall 2023 semester, 20% of students were moderately or severely food insecure. The results also demonstrated that being a non-first-generation student, having to borrow money for food, and perceiving that their academics were impacted by lack of access to food, were predictors of food insecurity. This study demonstrates a 20% prevalence of food insecurity and highlights various contributing. The high prevalence of food insecurity shows the need for future research and interventions at the university level to improve the health and wellness of students.