Food Insecurity And The Effect On College Students: An Analysis Of Food Pantries In A College Town In Appalachia

Food insecurity is especially prevalent in rural areas, and is a growing concern among college students. In 2017, 46.2% of college students experienced food insecurity in the Appalachia region. Food pantries play a role in limiting food insecurity by providing food at little-to-no cost. Yet, the nutritional and energetic contents available, especially as it relates to college-aged adults, is unknown. This study was conducted to assess and analyze the nutritional content of the foods available to college students from pantries located in close proximity to a college campus in the Appalachia region. Using the Healthy Food Pantry Assessment tool, food pantries were scored (0-100; arbitrary units) based on a visit and discussion with food pantry directors. Additionally, nutritional contents of pantry foods were examined in line with the dietary needs of a typical college student. Food pantry 1 scored 39, pantry 2 scored 59, and pantry 3 scored 60. The food that the pantries provided to their clients was aimed to supplement the client for a duration of 14 days. In general, students who rely on food pantries as their sole source of food do not reach recommendations set by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.