324 Eating practices of adolescent migrants in-transit in Mexico

Abstract PTH 2: Determinants of Health Disease and Interventions 2, B307 (FCSH), September 3, 2025, 15:45 - 16:39 Aims To describe the practices of food procurement, preparation and consumption of adolescent migrants during active mobility (in-transit migration) in Mexico, and to analyze the social determination of those practices and their possible impact on health. Methods We employ a sociological framework of theory of practice, to situate the food-related activities of migrants (procurement, preparation and consumption) in the context of the social structures that facilitate or hinder the possibility of eating a balanced diet. We explore these practices as both individual and collective strategies that migrants enact when faced with food insecurity and other difficulties during their journey. Data came from 19 qualitative interviews with adolescent migrants conducted in 2022-2023, and were analyzed following a reflexive thematic analysis strategy. Results The food practices of adolescent migrants in this context are limited by poverty, which constricts decision-making, and by the fact that oftentimes they reside in shelters where meals are provided, but choice is limited and the chances to purchase food outside are limited. During active transit through treacherous routes, food sources are scarce. Adolescent migrants respond to all of these by forming emergent networks of reciprocity, a collective practice that allows them to exert a degree of decision-making over food intake despite challenging circumstances. Conclusions Food-related practices while in mobility are constrained by numerous structural determinants, to which adolescent migrants respond through individual and collective actions.