9.Y.2. PechaKucha: Food Insecurity, Nutrition and Health – a growing challenge in Europe

Food Insecurity (FIS) is a state of “not having access by all people at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life”. Traditionally, FIS has been linked to low-income countries and to malnutrition, but FIS is also increasing in high-income setting. Even in countries, where social welfare systems are designed to protect people from poverty and ensure well-being across the life course, the persistence of FIS presents a striking paradox. Whilst intimately intertwined with poverty, low income is not the sole factor determining FIS. Also, the type of work is related to FIS, e.g., if there are limitations in having a proper lunch during the working hours. Further, structural factors such as rising food costs, displacement, and support system gaps contribute to food insecurity among populations presumed protected by welfare systems. This session invites critical dialogue on the structural roots of food insecurity and the limitations of current welfare systems. This presentation demonstrates how, despite apparent prosperity and comprehensive protections, many individuals and families experience food shortages or anxiety about accessing nutritious food. Results from recent studies examining food insecurity across multiple vulnerable groups-including low-income service workers, families with children, and Ukrainian refugees will be presented. Additionally, the coping strategies families employ to manage food purchasing during financial hardship, as well as the potential implications on diet quality and health in young families are discussed. Key messages • Food insecurity is an increasing problem in high-income settings. • Many factors contribute to food insecurity across Europe. Speakers/Panellists Mikael Fogelholm University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland Maijaliisa Erkkola University of Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Finland Kirsi Laitinen University of Turku, Turku, Finland