A mixed-methods study to determine the impact of COVID-19 on food security, food access and supply in regional Australia for consumers and food supply stakeholders

Abstract

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the Australian food supply through changed consumer purchasing patterns, and potentially, household food security. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the prevalence of food insecurity and food supply issues, and perspectives of food supply stakeholders in regional Australia. Methods A mixed-methods consumer survey and in-depth interviews with food supply stakeholders were conducted in regional Australia, more specifically South West Western Australia between May and July 2020, immediately after the 1st wave of the pandemic. Results The prevalence of food insecurity was 21% among consumers, and significantly more prevalent for those aged less than 30 years and living with a disability. Most consumers (73%) agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted the food supply. Food insecure respondents were more likely to report that food was more expensive, resulting in changes to the types and quantities of food bought. Food supply stakeholders perceived that consumers increased their intention to buy locally grown produce. Panic buying temporarily reduced the availability of food for both food suppliers and consumers, regardless of their food security status. Conclusions This study provided novel insights from South West Australian consumer and food supply stakeholder perceptions. Food insecure consumers provided insights about the high cost of food and the subsequent adaptation of their shopping habits, namely type and amount of food purchased. Stakeholder perceptions largely focused on supply chain issues and corroborated consumer reports.

Consumer-driven strategies towards a resilient and sustainable food system following the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia

“…Some hospitality businesses were forced to close due to social distancing restrictions; others adapted their business model to offer takeaway or home delivery [36]. The way in which consumers shopped in supermarkets also changed as individuals were encouraged to reduce the number of shopping trips taken to avoid the risk of infection, have only one member of the household shopping for food and alter the timing of the trip to avoid peak times [37]. There was also a significant increase in food deliveries and 'click and collect' shopping [37].…”

Food Supply Impacts and Solutions Associated with the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Regional Australian Case Study

“…The “just-in-time fulfillment” of food stocks presented issues when supply chains were inflexible and unable to respond to unprecedented demand. Thus, supply chain vulnerabilities were highlighted and resulted in empty supermarket shelves [ 8 , 9 ]. Businesses sought alternative suppliers, food prices increased, many hospitality businesses closed, the media spread misinformation, and consumers sought alternative food suppliers to meet their needs [ 7 , 10 ].…”

“…Region-based or local food purchasing is a potential solution to food supply issues, particularly during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent evidence suggested that consumer demand resulted in surges in local food sales at farm gates or farmers’ markets [ 9 , 13 ]. In regional WA, some consumers preferred to shop at smaller outlets and roadside stalls instead of the large supermarkets [ 9 ].…”

“…Recent evidence suggested that consumer demand resulted in surges in local food sales at farm gates or farmers’ markets [ 9 , 13 ]. In regional WA, some consumers preferred to shop at smaller outlets and roadside stalls instead of the large supermarkets [ 9 ]. These purchasing behaviours were largely motivated by altruistic reasons; consumers reported wanting to support their local farmers.…”

Factors Influencing Consumption of Traditional Diets: Stakeholder Views regarding Sago Consumption among the Indigenous Peoples of West Papua

“…Stakeholders with interests in food security (e.g., policymakers, educators and extension specialists, members of civil society groups, and those within the food industry) play an important role in shaping access to healthy and sustainable diets [10]. Hence, stakeholders' views on what constitutes healthy practices and the role of traditional foods in promoting food security are important, as they will shape food availability and hence consumers' food choices in the supply chain [10]. Stakeholders' perspectives are important as one of the approaches applied to the development of community empowerment where stakeholders have different roles and responsibilities [11].…”