Food Insecurity Knowledge and Training Among College Students in Health Majors

Abstract

Objective: To describe current food insecurity (FI)-related training among nutrition/dietetics, public health, and social work students. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was used among students (n = 306) enrolled in health-related programs at 12 US universities. Participants reported FI-related course-based and extracurricular experiences and rated confidence to address FI on a scale of 1–3. Open-ended questions investigated perceived definitions of FI and impactful course activities. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used for data analysis. Results: Participants’ FI definitions were multifaceted. Most (80.6%) reported FI being covered in at least 1 course. The overall mean confidence to address FI was 2.2 ± 0.48. Participants suggested increasing application-based opportunities and skills training. Conclusions and Implications: Most students have a basic understanding of FI and report high confidence to address it in the future. Impactful FI-related experiences and participants’ suggestions guide developing an FI training resource to enhance student FI competency and sensitivity.