Silent hunger

Unveiling food insecurity among university students in Türkiye

Bibliographic Data

ID21294971
AuthorsSüleyman Utku Uzun (0000-0002-8876-2848, School of Medicine, Pamukkale University Department of Public Health), Ümmühan İnci Kandemi̇r (School of Medicine, Pamukkale University Department of Public Health)
Year2026
Pages1-15
Publication date2026-03-20
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueBritish Food Journal (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0007-070X • E-ISSN: 1758-4108
PublisherEmerald (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1108/bfj-11-2025-1566
OpenAlexW7138942842
LanguageEN
References cited25

Purpose Food insecurity is a global public health concern with profound implications for physical health, mental well-being and academic performance. University students are disproportionately affected, with limited research available in Türkiye. This study investigates the prevalence and determinants of food insecurity among students at Pamukkale University in Denizli, Türkiye. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 1 and December 20, 2023, among 649 students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected via face-to-face surveys using a structured questionnaire that included the 9-item Household Food Insecurity Access Scale Logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with food insecurity. Findings The prevalence of food insecurity among participants was 41.9%, with 23.0% reporting mild, 14.2% moderate and 4.8% severe food insecurity. Factors significantly associated with food insecurity included insufficient income and debt (OR = 4.268, 95% CI: 2.505–7.273), insufficient income without debt (OR = 2.293, 95% CI: 1.379–3.815) and sufficient income but no savings (OR = 1.589, 95% CI: 1.032–2.446). Students living in dormitories or apartments were more likely to experience food insecurity compared to those living with family (OR = 3.050, 95% CI: 2.074–4.484). Originality/value Food insecurity is a significant issue among the surveyed student population in Denizli, Türkiye, driven by financial constraints and living arrangements. Addressing this issue requires systemic interventions, including increased financial support, affordable housing and targeted programs. Ensuring food security among students is essential for fostering their academic success and overall well-being

Debt · Food insecurity · Food security · Logistic regression · Mental health · Population · Public university · Scale (ratio) · Food Safety and Hygiene · Food Security and Health in Diverse Populations · Food Waste Reduction and Sustainability

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