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Food insecurity among international post-secondary students studying on a Canadian campus: A qualitative description study

Abstract
Enrollment of international post-secondary students is increasing across Canadian campuses. International post-secondary students may experience challenges in accessing nutritious foods that meet their dietary needs and food preferences. These challenges can pose negative impacts on their health, well-being, and academic achievement. Our aim was to describe international post-secondary students’ perceptions of (1) challenges to attaining food security and (2) consequences of food insecurity on the university experience. We conducted individual semi-structured interviews with 11 international post-secondary students at the University of Alberta who had food insecurity and who had requested emergency foodhampers from the on-campus food bank. Our results revealed the negative impacts that food insecurity can have on international post-secondary students. Findings underscore the imperative to minimize the occurrence of food insecurity while studying in Alberta, Canada by introducing and enhancing support systems on campus and in the community to enable food security.
Authors: Mahitab Hanbazaza,Maryam Kebbe,Arnaldo Perez,Geoff D. C. Ball,Anna P. Farmer,Katerina Maximova,Noreen D. Willows Publication Date: 1/1/2021

Publication Type: Journal Article

URL:https://www.erudit.org/en/journals/cjhe/2021-v51-n2-cjhe06423/1082021ar.pdf
Notes

Key findings:

1) Logistical issues related to obtaining sufficient food included: lack of time, limited family support, modest food preparation skills, and low knowledge about supportive services and resources.

2) Students faced challenges in sourcing culturally appropriate foods, including issues related to food availability, accessibility, acceptability, and affordability.

3) Food insecurity to negatively influenced academic performance through compromised concentration, reduced class and exam attendance, and adverse impacts on physical, mental, and social well-being.

4) Some students reported extreme food deprivation, resulting in hunger.

Location: Edmonton, AB

Community organizations: n/a

Future research / gaps identified: Qualitative findings from a specific sample of students at 1 university cannot be generalized to other contexts.

Integration timeline: International university students (not otherwise specified)

Key populations: International students at the University of Alberta who are experiencing food insecurity

Key recommendations: Consider these narratives when establishing or refining programs and services at post-secondary, provincial, and federal levels designed to address food insecurity.

Open access: No


Collections education-students-teachers , physical-and-mental-health

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