‘Eating to survive’: A qualitative analysis of factors influencing food choice and eating behaviour in a food-insecure population

Abstract

Food insecurity affects approximately 8.4 million people in the UK, one of the worst levels in Europe.Food insecurity is associated with poor diet quality and obesity; however, the drivers of this relationship are unclear. This study used a qualitative approach to explore factors that influence food choice and eating behaviour in a food-insecure population in Liverpool, UK. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with adults (N=24) who were clients at foodbanks. The interviews were informed by a semi-structured interview schedule, which focussed on access to food, factors influencing food choices, and strategies used to conserve food. Interview transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Six themes were identified; 'Income', 'Cost of food', 'Accessibility of shops', 'Health issues', 'Food rationing strategies' and 'Worsened health outcomes'. Income was the most salient factor influencing participants' food choices with all participants reporting a constant struggle to afford food. Food decisions were primarily based on cost; most participants valued eating healthily but could not afford to do so. Strategies to ration food included skipping meals, consuming small portions, cooking in bulk, and prioritising children's food intake. The majority of participants reported pre-existing physical and/or mental health issues, but these were exacerbated by poor access to food leading to a vicious cycle of stress and worsening health issues. In conclusion, participants' food choices and eating behaviour seemed to be most strongly influenced by their level of income. Findings also highlight the mental health impact of food insecurity. Initiatives addressing income and the cost of healthy food are required.

The impact of COVID-19 lockdown on food priorities. Results from a preliminary study using social media and an online survey with Spanish consumers

“…When a participant indicated purchasing a product more or less amount, he/she was asked to choose their reasons from a list of 17 motivations ( Table 1 ). The two lists (motivations for purchasing more and less) were based on the Eating Motivation Survey by Phan & Chambers, 2016 , adapted to the Spanish language ( Laguna, Fiszman, & Tarrega, 2020 ); few motivations from a previous study on food insecurity ( Puddephatt et al, 2020 ) were also included. The motivations encompass several dimensions: limitations, acceptability, mood, price, health/weight control, information received, and shelf-life.…”

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on food habits and perceptions: A study with Brazilians

“…All issues were addressed in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. The studies of Pacheco et al (2018), Fami et al (2019) , Eating Motivation Survey by Phan & Chambers (2016) and motivations regarding food insecurity ( Puddephatt et al, 2020 ) guided the questions elaboration. The constructed items tried to be succinct, simple, and clear for respondents to understand.…”

Factors influencing the perception and decision‐making process of consumers on the choice of healthier foods in the United Kingdom: a systematic review using narrative synthesis

“…(2006) found that all the interviewees would pay extra for convenience foods because of their busy schedules. However, it was also reported that some consumers could not afford to buy some of the healthier food products because of the cost (Puddephatt et al ., 2020).…”

“…Puddephatt et al . (2020) established that the income of consumers is the most influencing factor for eating behaviours. Some of the participants that relied on food banks claimed that they were left with ‘ forced choice’ of choosing from the available food products and attributed the ‘no choice’ to the low level of their income.…”