Relationship between family functioning and food consumption during a health and social crisis: A COVID-19 study in Chile

The COVID-19 pandemic and government measures have challenged family functioning (FF) and eating behaviors. In non-pandemic scenarios, FF has shown a protective role in diet quality. This study aimed to explore the role of FF in family members’ food consumption during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Chile. We conducted a cross-sectional, non-probabilistic study. Chilean adults (n= 821) answered an online survey based on the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales (FACES) IV and a scale of food intake perceptions (non-processed and processed food). The survey also included an open space for comments (n= 147). Most participants had a medium or high FF category. Participants with higher FF had a lower risk of decreasing the consumption of non-processed foods (RR= 0.58 for fruits and RR= 0.45 for legumes) and lower risk of increasing processed foods (RR= 0.37 for sugar-sweetened beverages, RR= 0.46 for snacks, and RR= 0.64 for chocolates) when compared to lower FF participants and controlling for per-capita income. Participants commented on changes in FF: some had more conflicts and others were happy to be together during the pandemic. Most participants indicated that they maintained or increased non-processed and processed food consumption compared to the pre-pandemic period. They perceived having the opportunity of eating healthier during the pandemic. However, the stress they suffered produced them to eat unhealthily. Therefore, FF had a protective role in diet quality during the pandemic. Policymakers should consider FF when promoting healthy diets, especially in health crises.