Report of the Scientific Committee of the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) on the nutritional status of the immigrant population residing in Spain

The migratory phenomenon has had a significant demographic impact in Spain in recent years. Currently, 6.8 million foreign nationals have established their habitual residence in our country, representing 14 % of the total resident population. Within the acculturation process of the immigrant population ‐ through which they adopt the lifestyle habits of the host society ‐ food plays a fundamental role and is key to the integration of these individuals. However, it can be affected by various factors, such as individual factors (country of origin or length of residence in Spain), sociocultural factors (religious beliefs or difficulties in cooking), or structural factors (working conditions or educational level), which may impact their health. Scientific literature on dietary intake and the nutritional status of immigrants living in Spain is very limited, especially compared to the native population and to studies conducted in other nearby countries on this population, and it presents limitations that hinder access to comprehensive information. Nonetheless, despite the scarcity of studies, the review carried out to prepare this report highlights that the dietary intake of the immigrant population in Spain is diverse and that lower adherence to healthy dietary recommendations is associated with a higher risk of obesity and its complications, such as type 2 diabetes or increased cardiovascular risk. Some studies show a decrease in fiber and certain nutrient intake, more commonly observed among the immigrant population compared to the native population, with variations depending on the country of origin. Information on the risk of malnutrition is very limited and does not allow for a definitive conclusion. The Scientific Committee of the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) considers it essential to conduct studies that characterize the nutritional status of the immigrant population residing in Spain, including the dietary patterns of second generations. These studies should overcome the limitations of previous research by using longitudinal methodologies adapted to each ethnic group, ensuring the cultural validity of assessment tools, and addressing the diversity of the migratory experience. Additionally, the consumption of foods rich in nutrients that are deficient in this population should be promoted, with the collaboration of Public Administrations, the food industry, and the scientific community, to facilitate access to healthy eating. Likewise, it is crucial to strengthen nutritional education, especially aimed at immigrants who have recently arrived, by taking into account the cultural and socioeconomic conditions specific to each group, with special attention to seasonal agricultural workers.