Correlates of food insecurity among university students in a low socioeconomic area

Abstract Background The prevalence of food insecurity (FI) is high and suggested to be growing among university students, with potential detrimental effects on their health status and academic performances. This cross-sectional study aims to identify the socioeconomic, demographic and lifestyle factors associated with FI among university students in a disadvantaged area. Methods An anonymous online survey was conducted from Nov 2022 to Jan 2023 among students enrolled at University Sorbonne Paris Nord, located in a low socioeconomic area in France. FI was assessed with one question distinguishing 2 levels of FI: quantitative (i.e. not having enough to eat) and qualitative (i.e. not having the desired food). This abstract focused on quantitative FI. To improve the representativeness of the sample compared to the total student population of the university, sample weights were used according to gender, study level and speciality, whether they were undergoing initial training or not, or obtained their baccalaureate abroad or not. Multivariable multinomial logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with FI. Results A total of 5068 students provided valid answers (20% of the target population), 66% of whom were women, and 12% and 36% reported quantitative and qualitative FI, respectively. Being a man, an undergraduate, having obtained a baccalaureate abroad, not living in the family home, not receiving food from family, having no household food-heating facilities, reporting financial difficulties, relying on food charity and eating alone on a regular basis were positively associated with quantitative FI (P < 0.0001). Those reporting quantitative FI were more likely to report academic difficulties. Conclusions This study shows a high prevalence of FI in this student population and identifies several associated factors. Identifying students at greater risk of FI is an important first step to design and evaluate public health interventions. Key messages • The different socio-economic backgrounds of university students imply important food insecurity disparities among them. • University students present several factors associated with food insecurity, which should be considered when addressing food insecurity in this population.