What is meant by food insecurity?

Food insecurity refers to the situation where individuals or communities do not have reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable and nutritious food. This lack of access can stem from various factors, including economic instability, lack of transportation, or inadequate food distribution systems. It often leads to poor health outcomes due to malnutrition or undernutrition, as people may either not be able to acquire enough food or may have to settle for lower-quality, less nutritious options.

The concept encompasses the broader implications of food scarcity in both developed and developing nations, highlighting issues such as poverty, diet quality, and overall community well-being. In contrast, having consistent access to a variety of foods indicates food security, while relying on a single type of food source may lead to deficiencies and is not representative of food insecurity. Access to food without affordability implies that while food may be available, it is prohibitively expensive, which is a related concern but does not fully encapsulate the broader context of food insecurity.