Food security and health status: challenges and perceptions from a national survey in Greece

Nutrition impacts the health and well-being of the population, while food insecurity (FI) is a critical driver of malnutrition. This nationwide survey (self-reported questionnaire) explores the understanding and perceptions of food security (FS) in Greece. Outcomes from 1109 individuals (women: 56.7%, age: 35 ± 16 years) demonstrated 54.6% awareness of the quantitative and qualitative aspects of FS. 1 in 4 respondents were uncertain if adequate food access, regardless of quality, is sufficient to establish household FS and 13% acknowledged hunger as a sign of FI. The primary barriers and facilitators to FS identified were food prices and inflation (≈60%), sustainable agricultural practices and fostering local food production and consumption. Participants (>50%) were unsure whether individual dietary changes, (reducing meat and increasing plant-based foods) were beneficial. The multidimensional crisis in Europe poses significant risks to Greece's FS, underscoring the need for tailored, multi-level policies and practices at individual and community levels.