Food security in Italian adults: associations with sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviours and food-app use in a cross-sectional study

To examine the association of sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviours and food-app-related factors with food security. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 1752 adults residing in Italy (January-June 2024). Food security was assessed using the Italian version of the 10-item Food Security Survey Module, dichotomised (food secure versus food insecure) for regression analysis. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine associations with age, self-reported gender, macro-region of residence, education, marital status, family size, lifestyle profile and food-related app use. In fully adjusted models, women (OR 0.60; 95% CI 0.37-0.96) and participants living in Southern Italy and the Islands (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.42-0.99) had lower odds of food security, while higher education was positively associated with food security (OR 2.61; 95% CI 1.14-5.97). A healthier lifestyle profile was also associated with greater odds of food security (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.20-3.73). Findings support integrated strategies addressing structural and lifestyle-related food insecurity.