Food Bank Research Articles

Mixed-methods to explore barriers to the use of food security initiatives in a historically black college and university (HBCU).

To assess students' use and perception of the initiatives to tackle food insecurity (FI) in a Texas historically black college and university (HBCU). HBCU students > 18 years (288 students). A mixed-methods approach involving an online survey, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted among the students and major stakeholders to evaluate the prevalence of FI, and gain insights into the challenges to accessing, utilizing and effectively implementing food security (FS) initiatives. FI affected 63.5% of the participants. The awareness and utilization of the food pantry were 27.9% and 8.1% respectively while for the meal share programs, awareness and utilization were 30.1% and 15.0%, respectively. A significant association was found between FI and the place of residence (p = 0.027). Binary logistic regression model showed that students' school year was a predictor of food pantry awareness (p < 0.05), residence and FI status were predictors of the meal share program utilization (p < 0.05). Five themes, including poor awareness and visibility of campus resources, bureaucratic process and logistics, insufficient funds, personnel and other resources to run the initiatives, ineffective communication, and stigma due to location emerged as the main barriers to the use of the resources. This study emphasizes the necessity for HBCUs to address these hurdles in order to successfully help students in need with FI resources.

Food insecurity in a diverse community pediatric gastroenterology clinic: Screening strategies and insights.

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) in the community pediatric gastroenterology(GI) subspecialty clinic at Texas Children's Hospital (TCH) West Campus and to assess the utilization of services through our partnership with a local food bank. From July 1, 2023, to February 29, 2024, all patients seen in the pediatric GI clinic at TCH West Campus were screened for FI using the validated Hunger Vital Sign tool and given the opportunity to consult with a local food bank representative. A retrospective chart review was then performed on patients who completed the implemented FI screening process. 13.4% of the total patients screened positive for FI. Hispanic patients (p < 0.0001), patients with the preferred language of Spanish (p < 0.0001), those enrolled in Medicaid or Children's Health Insurance Program (p < 0.0001), and patients with obesity (body mass index ≥ 30.0, p = 0.0003) were more likely to screen positive for FI. Poor weight gain/failure to thrive and steatotic liver disease were significantly more common in those with FI (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0003, respectively), while celiac disease, abdominal pain, and blood in stool were more common in those without FI (p = 0.0003, 0.0475, and 0.0404, respectively). As a result of our implemented FI screening process, 68.4% of those screening positive opted for resource referral, with 50.7% successfully receiving assistance in combating FI. Identifying the potential impact of FI in common pediatric GI conditions calls for proactive screening and more holistic, patient-centered approaches in clinical practice.

Perspectives on Evaluation of Food Banks

Food banks have played an important role in reducing food loss and waste and improving the food insecurity of vulnerable people. This study aimed to carry out a systematic review of food bank evaluation studies and bring new perspectives for future research and decision-making. Ninety-three articles were selected and analyzed from a search on the Web of Science and ScienceDirect platforms. Bibliometric analyses and analyses of the evaluation methodologies were performed. The bibliometric results present the evolution of the studies over the period considered (1994–2024) and indicate how peaks of growth in the number of studies may be related to external events. Both the authors and studied organizations are located mainly in high-income countries. The main aspects considered in the evaluation methodologies are related to the dimensions of short-term impacts and results, indicating less interest in the dimension related to internal processes and activities. This study provides important support for researchers and decision-makers: in addition to presenting, in each dimension of the evaluation, the main indicators used, it raises the questions of the extent to which evaluation studies reflect the reality and context of a given country or region and the extent to which they reflect the management processes of food banks.

Disparities in Food Insecurity and Academic Achievement Among California Public University Students: An Intersectional Approach.

Background/Objectives: Historically racialized status (HRS) and low socioeconomic position (SEP) are independent risk factors for food insecurity and poor academic achievement among college students. Despite increased enrollment of students from historically racialized groups and low SEP, little is known regarding the intersectional experience of these contemporary student characteristics with food security status or academic achievement. The purpose of this study was to examine the intersections of racialized status and SEP with food insecurity and academic achievement among undergraduate students attending a public university system in California. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1170 undergraduates who utilized their campus food pantry between June and August 2019 at nine University of California campuses. Racialized status and SEP were used to construct four distinct intersectional positions: (1) White, not low SEP (i.e., traditional students; reference), and three contemporary student groups: (2) White, low SEP; (3) HRS, not low SEP; and (4) HRS, low SEP. Using regression analyses, these intersectional positions were examined with food insecurity and grade point average (GPA), while controlling for other student characteristics. Results: HRS, low SEP students had significantly higher odds of experiencing food insecurity (OR = 2.72; 95% CI: 1.52-4.97) and lower GPA (B = -0.14, p = 0.05) than traditional students, after adjustment. Conclusions: Contemporary students are at increased risk of food insecurity and lower academic achievement compared to traditional students.

The Relationship Between a Campus Food Pantry and Academic Success at a Public University

Food insecurity (FI) is associated with lower academic performance in university students. This research aimed to describe the relationship between a campus food pantry and academic performance, describe the characteristics of student pantry shoppers (PSs), and develop a model to predict academic success. Researchers obtained student pantry swipes and university data (2021–2022 academic year) to generate a dataset for grade point average (GPA) (N = 23,896) and a subset of PS sociodemographic data (N = 852). Variables (cumulative or term GPA) differed based on models. Explanatory variables were biological sex, age, frequency of pantry shopping, classification, Pell Grant eligibility, college, athlete status, citizenship, residency, ethnicity/race, honors, and first-generation status. The analysis included the two-sample t-test, logistic and multiple regression, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). There was no difference (t(921.8) = 0.518, p = 0.60) in the cumulative GPA between PSs (M = 3.001 [0.808]) and non-pantry shoppers (NPSs) (M = 3.016 [0.874]). In the fall term, PSs (M = 3.018 [1.012] earned a higher GPA (t(581.69) = −2.235, p = 0.03) than NPSs (M = 2.919 [1.123]). Pantry shoppers achieved academic success despite exhibiting risk factors for FI, including first-generation status, being of the female sex, and financial need. Targeted multicomponent campus programs are needed to provide food assistance to students at risk for FI.

Food insecurity among food banks users during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany – what have we learnt and what should we do?

Abstract Background Before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, up to 1.65 million people visited a total of 956 food banks called “Tafel” in Germany. The start of the pandemic and the associated first lockdown led to shortages in commercial food outlets and to considerable restrictions on the range of food banks. The aim of the study “Food INsecurity Among TAfel users” (FINATA) was to investigate the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) and its association with social support and food shopping behaviours among Tafel users during the pandemic. Methods A written and/or oral survey was conducted in 2020 and 2021 among a total of 985 Tafel users. In addition to descriptive analyses, regression analyses, stratified for 2020 and 2021, were conducted to investigate associations between FI and the other variables. Results Participants of 2020 (n = 565) and 2021 (n = 420) differed in several socio-demographic characteristics. Whereas the prevalence of moderate FI over the 30 days prior to the survey differed between participants of 2020 (21,6 %) and 2021 (6,6 %), the prevalence of severe FI was almost identical (3,9 % vs. 4,0 %). Variables being significantly (p &amp;lt; 0,05) associated with moderate/severe FI included being single vs. being married (2020: OR 4,89, 2021: OR 2,69), receiving at least half of food in the household from the Tafel (2020: OR 0,34), low vs. moderate/high social support (2020: OR 2,93), buying food in commercial food outlets at least once/week vs. less often (2021: OR 0,38) and time of travel to the most used commercial food outlet (2021: OR 1,04). Conclusions The social safety net during the pandemic failed to enable “all people to have (...) economic access to sufficient (...) food” in Germany. Future studies should investigate the relationship between social support, shopping behaviours and FI at the long-term. Food banks are recommended to introduce measures to improve the social situation of their clients such as cooperating with social cafés and restaurants.

Needs and perceptions regarding healthy eating among people at risk of food insecurity in the Netherlands

Abstract Background Healthy eating behaviour is an essential determinant of overall health. This behaviour is generally poor among people at risk of experiencing food insecurity, which may be caused by many factors including perceived higher costs of healthy foods, financial stress, inadequate nutritional knowledge, and inadequate skills required for healthy food preparation. Few studies have examined how these factors influence eating behaviour among people at risk of experiencing food insecurity. We therefore aimed to gain a better understanding of the needs and perceptions regarding healthy eating in this target group. Methods We conducted a qualitative exploration with 10 participants at risk of experiencing food insecurity in the Netherlands. Results and conclusions The analysis using an inductive approach identified four core factors influencing eating behaviour: Health related topics; Social and cultural influences; Influences by the physical environment; and Financial influences. Overall, participants showed adequate nutrition knowledge. However, eating behaviour was strongly influenced by social factors and physical environmental factors. Perceived barriers for healthy eating behaviour included poor mental health, financial stress, and high food prices. Participants had a generally conscious attitude towards their financial situation, reflected in their strategies to cope with a limited budget. Participants were familiar with several existing resources to reduce food-related financial strain and generally had a positive attitude towards these resources. An exception was the Food Bank, of which the food parcel content was not well appreciated. Proposed interventions to reduce food-related financial strain included facilitating social contacts, increasing healthy food supply in the neighbourhood, and lowering prices of healthy foods. The insights from this study increase understanding of factors influencing eating behaviour of people at risk of food insecurity.

Characterising users of community-based interventions designed to improve the food practices

Abstract Promoting affordable ways to help low-income families improve dietary behaviours and achieve a healthy weight represents a priority for UK public health policy. For such interventions to be appropriately tailored and targeted, it is important to better understand the intended recipients. The present study aimed to assess the dietary practices and psychosocial characteristics of users of Aberdeen City community-based interventions (e.g., food banks, pantries, social cafés) designed to support low-income communities in accessing food and engaging in healthier food practices. From January to June 2023, a cross-sectional survey was conducted employing convenience sampling among users of community-based interventions (N = 105; 73 females). The questionnaire assessed diet quality (SFFQ), household food insecurity (HFIAS), mental health (PHQ-4), well-being (Cantril Ladder), intention and self-efficacy toward healthy eating, and sociodemographic variables. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, group comparisons, correlations, and regression analyses. Results indicated that community-based food provision users are highly vulnerable to food insecurity. Among participants, 53.3% reported severe food insecurity, and 18.1% reported moderate levels. Service users’ diets were high in discretionary foods and drinks (26% consume daily &amp;gt;1 portion of fizzy juice, 18.2% sweets, 16.7% crisps vs. 11.5% fruits and 10.6% vegetables). The mean dietary quality score was 9.48 (SD = 1.90) from a possible 15. Higher food insecurity and lower diet quality were significantly associated with greater mental distress (r=.41, p&amp;lt;.001; r=-.287, p=.005;) and poorer well-being (r=-.460, p&amp;lt;.001; r=.19, p=.049;). This study is part of a larger project aiming to optimise community-based dietary interventions for low-income populations. The results provide a clearer picture of the intended beneficiaries of such interventions and highlight user needs that can be prioritised in optimisation efforts. Key messages • Community-based food provision users are highly vulnerable to food insecurity and related negative health experiences. • The burden of poor diet and its associated health consequences disproportionately affect those living in the most deprived communities.

6.X.2. Food Insecurity in Europe: Voices from across Europe

Abstract Food insecurity (FI), “lack of regular access to enough safe and nutritious food for normal growth and development and an active and healthy life”, is a global public health issue. The United Nations (UN) have identified achieving food security as a key Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), where all people should “have access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food all year round.” However, disasters related to the consequences of changing climates, pandemics, wars, displacement of populations, high inflation rates, changes in social protection systems, and food system changes challenge the achievement of this SDG. FI persists even in high-income countries including Europe. This workshop session will foster a knowledge, research and experience exchange on the situation of individuals / different population groups in the context of FI in different European countries. Starting with a contribution from Austria, the term food poverty is introduced and considered from a food system perspective / from an equity perspective. The second contribution illuminates the relationships between FI, shopping behaviours and social support among food bank users in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic. The final third contribution comes from the Netherlands and explores the needs and perceptions regarding healthy eating among people at risk of FI. In all three studies, standardized measurement tools were applied to measure FI but recruiting methods and data collection methods varied considerably between and within the studies. The session enhances the knowledge on FI in Europe from different perspectives. Key messages • Food insecurity does exist in Europe: there is a need for regular, consistent monitoring across European countries. • Food insecurity involves more than just access to food; it also considers nutritious and climate-friendly options, addressing the link between climate, health, and equity.

Mapping a food donation supply chain and the implications for social policies in Brazil

PurposeThe coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic raised global alarms about hunger and food insecurity worldwide and the corresponding need for public policies, particularly in emerging countries. One possible solution for addressing this important topic is a food donation supply chain, which comprises food banks and involves their relationships with suppliers (donors), customers (people in need) and other potential stakeholders. The aim of this research is to understand how different agents in a food donation supply chain use different but interrelated capital dimensions (human, structural and relational) to leverage their resources and build knowledge in their relationships with other stakeholders.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted an abductive single case study with the food bank as a focal organisation in a direct supply chain. Data were collected by way of 15 semi-structured interviews with representatives from each tier in the chain (food bank, donor, social impact company and social movement), non-participant observation and secondary data (e.g. codes of practice, websites and media). All data sources were analysed individually and then cross-checked.FindingsOur findings show that tangible dimensions, such as those that are structural, are present upstream while intangible dimensions – those that are relational and human, for example – are prevalent downstream. The political dimension was identified as an important mechanism that allows stakeholder engagement and access to resources, funding and government incentives.Originality/valueBy applying a multi-tier approach, the present research explores how different stages in this supply chain use intellectual capital (IC) to better manage relationships. The heterogeneity of agents within the food donation supply chain (public, private and third sector), each of which has distinct levels of IC dimensions, can share their knowledge to improve efficiency and social protection mechanism policies. Since the focal organisation is a non-profit organisation, this study also contributes to IC theory.

Daniel N. Warshawsky: Food waste, food insecurity, and the globalization of food banks

Daniel N. Warshawsky: Food waste, food insecurity, and the globalization of food banks

An exploration of community food pantries in Scotland: strategic and operational perspectives on addressing food insecurity and health inequalities

Introduction: Food insecurity and health are inextricably linked. Since 2008, Scotland has witnessed a proliferation of both food insecurity and emergency food provision. There is a recognised commitment from Scottish Government to ‘end the need for food banks’, however, the food aid landscape was ‘turbo-charged’ during COVID-19 leading to intense expansion and diversification of food-based projects, including the development of community food pantries (CFPs). These ‘new’ models are relatively under-researched, meaning we do not adequately understand their potential or realised impacts on food insecurity and health. This study aims to fill that gap.MethodsA qualitative methodology was used to collect and analyse data from in-depth interviews with 10 representatives from both operational and policy settings related to food insecurity in Scotland. In addition, we conducted an analysis of policy documentation from Scottish Government related to tackling food insecurity to understand how CFPs fit into its overall strategy to transition away from food bank use.ResultsWe found there were variations in conceptualisations of CFPs and how they operate, challenges related to addressing food insecurity at a community level and varied narratives around the role of community level interventions in tackling health inequalities. Choice and access to services were viewed as central components to the pantry model. However, there were significant challenges faced by CFPs, including territorialism, funding and food supply. Articulations of health were often multi-layered and complicated with strong recognition of the social determinants as well as acknowledgement of the limitations of tackling food insecurity and health inequalities solely at the community level.ConclusionsDespite a commitment to transition away from emergency food provision, CFPs in Scotland appear to face many of the same issues as food banks, particularly those which impact health. Urgent critique of their reliance on surplus food redistribution is required alongside investigation of how these ‘new’ models are experienced by the people who access them. Further expansion of these models should be viewed with caution and in the same vein as traditional emergency food provision: a symptom of, rather than a solution to, the problem of food insecurity.

Assessing Different Two-Stage Stochastic Models for Optimizing Food Bank Networks’ Operations During Natural Disasters

Humanitarian logistics face significant challenges during natural disasters due to operational uncertainties. Humanitarian logistics networks such as food banks must manage both regular operations and disaster-induced supply and demand. The study aims to develop and assess two-stage stochastic models that support decision-making under these dual operations. We evaluate various decisional strategies through extensive numerical experiments inspired in the operation of the food bank network Bancos de Alimentos de México (BAMX), highlighting the importance of suitable timeframes for reactive and anticipative decisions. The findings offer valuable insights for managers in balancing routine and emergency responses efficiently.

CIC 2023: Enhancing Referrals to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through Clinical Integration of a Standards-Based Decision Support System.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is one of the most successful national programs to reduce poverty and improve health outcomes, but millions of Americans who qualify still do not have access to SNAP, and limited data is available to determine how referrals to the program can be completed successfully. We aimed to design and develop a standards-based digital care coordination platform to support closed-loop social services referrals between patients and social and health care providers; and demonstrate the feasibility to screen, diagnose, plan, and complete interventions with selected patients in real-settings. We partnered with community members to design the platform through Community Engagement Studios and with a Federally Qualified Health Center, Local Mental Health Authority, and Food Bank to determine the features and workflow requirements of the platform design. We customized currently available systems to use Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) that could exchange information in real-time across providers and participants. The platform was successfully demonstrated through a pilot where patients were recruited in clinical settings and referred to a Food Bank that provided SNAP application assistance to study participants. We translated the requirements of the platform to national standards and required workflows of providers and patients. Study participants were notified electronically of the specific steps to follow to complete their SNAP applications while receiving support from specialists from the Food Bank. The pilot demonstrated the feasibility of collecting granular social service referral information that can be used to better address gaps in social care. The pilot also highlighted the importance of further coordination on the usage and harmonization of needs assessment nationally and that current digital systems are still not ready to fully utilize national Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) data standards.

“The little I receive is not enough’’: A qualitative study of food insecurity in the South Bronx

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to explore the lived experiences of food insecurity amongst Bronx residents. Applying a community-based participatory research approach, we conducted a qualitative study, entailing 38 interviews with food pantry recipients, 4 key informant interviews with social service administrators, and two focus groups with 12 food pantry staff and social service providers in New York City (NYC). Applying a precarity framework, we identified three themes: (1) unaffordability of living expenses in NYC; (2) financial hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic; and (3) institutional and technological barriers to food access. We identified the following subthemes under theme one: rising food costs and high cost of living. Under theme two, we identified four subthemes: (a) large household size driving poverty for Bronx families; (b) vulnerabilities to food insecurity among older adults; (c) budgeting for reduced incomes during the COVID-19 pandemic; and (d) managing unstable employment. Under the third theme, we identified three subthemes: (a) lack of access to healthy, culturally appropriate foods; (b) need for wider service availability; (c) and not having smartphones for telehealth. Study findings demonstrate how precarity impacts the lived experiences of food insecurity and financial hardship for residents of the South Bronx during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Social Stigma, Logistics, and Reserving Resources for Others: Understanding Barriers to Campus Pantry Use

Food insecurity is prevalent among college students nationwide, but barriers preclude students from accessing campus food pantries (CFP). A multimethod approach was used to understand why students at a large, public research university who screened positive for food insecurity did not use the CFP. Survey (n = 82) and interview (n = 8) data revealed substantial barriers to CFP use including logistical challenges, social stigma, the belief that other students are in greater need of resources, and the view that food insecurity is a personal, private problem. Institutions can address these concerns by engaging all members of the campus community in campus anti-hunger efforts.

Analysis of optimization models under different approaches to deal with uncertainty regarding pre-disaster planning in food bank supply chains

Purpose: Pre-positioning is a crucial choice in pre-disaster humanitarian logistics planning that consists of deciding in advance how much aid and where should it be located to enable effective and prompt operations in the case of an emergency. To support managers making such decisions, we propose four mathematical formulations that, considering the uncertainty on the demand to satisfy, seek to optimize aid prepositioning (before the event) and further distribution (after the event) in order to minimize unmet demand (MUD). The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and compare the performance of these formulations on a real case to discuss when and why should each approach be applied.Design/methodology/approach: The two first formulations adopt the cardinality-constrained (CC) approach to handle uncertainty. These formulations differ in their objective functions, the first formulation’s objective seeks to MUD, whilst the second incorporates equity in the way that demand is satisfied. The two remaining formulations are scenario-based (SB) and as in the previous two formulations, seek to MUD with and without equity considerations, respectively.Findings: Applying our formulations to a case study, we compare the differences between the solutions produced by the proposed formulations and the solutions that would have been produced without uncertainty (perfect information) to have a better understanding of their performance and their behavior. A discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of each model is provided to help managers choose the model that best suits their needs.Originality/value: The formulations are applied to a case study where a food bank is faced with the arrival of a hurricane in Mexico. As far as our knowledge, it is the first work in literature to deal with humanitarian logistics under a cardinality-constrained approach.

Food for Thought: Mental Health, Psychological Well-Being, Social Engagement and Campus Service Utilization of Students Experiencing Food Insecurity at a Large Atlantic Canadian University

ABSTRACT The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence and associated mental health characteristics of food insecure (FI) students at an Atlantic Canadian University. Based on data from the National College Health Assessment-third revision (NCHA-III, 2023) (N = 1694; mean age = 26.6; 63.2% female), FI prevalence was 46.6%, with higher rates for male, international, and undergraduate students, and those from low-income families. Food Insecure students were more likely to report “serious” psychological distress, a state of ’languishing,’ a greater frequency of all forms of suicidality, and use of the university’s food bank and mental health services. Concomitant social issues were also more likely for FI students in terms of lacking companionship, feeling left out and isolated from others, experiencing problems/challenges with family and peers, and indicating less agreement that they belonged at their university, and that their health/well-being was a priority on campus. Recommendations on how institutions can address the issue are considered.

Relationship Between Grocery Shopping and Meal Preparation Self-Efficacy and Household Food Insecurity Among Food Pantry Clients

Relationship Between Grocery Shopping and Meal Preparation Self-Efficacy and Household Food Insecurity Among Food Pantry Clients

Conceptualising food banking in the UK from drivers of use to impacts on health and wellbeing: A systematic review and directed content analysis

Food banks have become commonplace in the UK as an emergency response to food insecurity. However, food banks are not a long-term solution to food insecurity and are often not accessed by those in need. In the context of the cost-of-living crisis, and increased food insecurity, this systematic review applied market/government failure theory, voluntary failure theory, and Radimer et al.’s (1990) domains of food insecurity to explore three important aspects relevant to the food banking experience: the drivers of food bank use; the limitations of the current food bank model; and the impacts of the food banking model for food bank clients. Empirical, peer-reviewed articles written in English with a UK food bank context and reporting relevant data to these aspects were eligible for inclusion. In total, 221 titles were identified using four databases (Web of Science, SCOPUS, PubMed, CINHAL Plus) in July 2022. The final sample of 41 articles (comprising qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies), were quality assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data were extracted and analysed through directed content analysis. Market and government failures were widely reported to drive food bank use. Insufficiency, paternalism and particularism represented key limitations of the food bank model. Negative health and psychological impacts of food bank use were prominent, yet social impacts were largely positive. Consequently, new solutions are needed to promote positive health and psychological impacts for food bank clients in the UK. The application of these findings to other high-income countries experiencing food insecurity should be determined.