Shifts in Food Acquisition and Consumption Habits During COVID-19: Insights from a Diverse Sample
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objectives Shifts in food acquisition during the COVID-19 pandemic may have affected diet. Assessing changes in diet is needed to inform food assistance programs aimed at mitigating diet disparities during future crises. This longitudinal study assessed changes in diet among a low-income, racially diverse population from March-November 2020. Methods Survey data were collected from 291 adults living in Austin, TX. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression models assessed the relationship between changes in consumption of fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables (FV), and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and the following food acquisition factors: food security, difficulty finding food, food bank usage, and food shopping method. Results Adjusted models indicated individuals with consistent food insecurity had increased odds of reporting a higher category of consumption for frozen (aOR = 2.13, P < 0.05, CI:1.18-3.85) and canned (aOR = 4.04, P < 0.01, CI:2.27-7.20) FV and SSB (aOR = 3.01, P < 0.01, CI:1.65-5.51). Individuals who reported using a food bank were more likely to report increased consumption of frozen (aOR = 2.14, P < 0.05, CI:1.22-3.76) and canned FV (aOR = 2.91, P < 0.01, CI:1.69-4.99). Conclusions Shifts in food acquisition factors were associated with changes in diet. Findings demonstrate the need for more robust food assistance programs that specifically focus on all dimensions of food security.
Authors: Danielle J. Gartner, Kathryn Janda-Thomte, Aida Nielsen, Baojiang Chen, Alexandra van den Berg
Institutions: Tulane University, Baylor University
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,550
OpenAlex ID: W4412488258