Food security

Food security exists on a continuum and is assessed using specially designed questions.

Food Security Levels

• High food security

  • Definition: No reported indications of food access problems or limitations.

  • Example: A family that has a full refrigerator and pantry, without shortages.

• Marginal food security

  • Definition: One or two reported indications of problems—typically of anxiety over food sufficiency or shortage of food in the house. Little or no indication of changes in diets or food intake.

  • Example: A parent who worries that the food purchased will not last until the next paycheck.