Food Insecurity During the First Year of COVID-19: An Analysis of Employment and Sociodemographic Factors Among a Longitudinal Cohort (CHASING COVID)

Abstract

Objectives While much has been reported about the impact of COVID-19 on U.S. food insecurity, longitudinal data and the variability experienced by people working in different industries are limited. This study aims to further characterize individuals experiencing food insecurity during the pandemic in terms of employment and sociodemographic characteristics and degree of food insecurity. Methods The study sample consisted of people enrolled in a U.S. prospective cohort study (CHASING COVID) who completed all food insecurity questionnaires from Visit 1 (April-July 2020) through Visit 7 (May-June 2021). Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were used to determine employment and sociodemographic correlates of food insecurity (using a screening question from the USDA HFSS). Patterns of food insecurity and utilization of food benefit programs were also examined. Results Thirty-one percent (1251/4019) of the sample were food insecure. Black and Hispanic respondents, households with children, and those with lower income and education levels had a higher odds of food insecurity. People employed in construction, leisure/hospitality and trade/transportation industries had the highest burden of both food insecurity and income loss. Among those reporting food insecurity, 40% were persistently food insecure (≥4 consecutive visits), and 46% did not utilize any food benefit programs. Conclusions The pandemic resulted in widespread food insecurity in our cohort, much of which was persistent. In addition to addressing sociodemographic disparities, future policies should focus on the needs of those working in vulnerable industries and ensure those experiencing food insecurity can easily participate in food benefit programs for which they are eligible.