From Cafeteria to Classroom: Unraveling the Nexus of Socioeconomic Factors and Food Security among University Students in Bangladesh

Abstract

This study investigates the food security status of students enrolled in public universities in Bangladesh, utilizing Household Dietary Diversity as a measure. The research reveals a varied distribution, wherein 71.32% of students are classified as food secure, while 28.68% face food insecurity. The results of the binary logistic regression analysis indicate that there is a positive association between food security status and variables such as gender, income levels, and father's occupation. On the contrary, the residential status demonstrates a negative correlation. Prominent factors that contribute to the issue of food insecurity include the lack of accessibility to reasonably priced and nourishing food inside the school premises, the limited range of choices available in university dining facilities, insufficient provisions of food, the absence of proper kitchen facilities, and a significant dependence on external sources for sustenance. This study highlights the importance of promptly addressing these complex challenges to improve students' ability to obtain nutritious food and promote their overall well-being in the context of university environment.