Food insecurity at Humboldt State University

This study examined the prevalence of food insecurity, along with the determinants and consequences of food insecurity among students attending Humboldt State University (HSU) in Northern California. These analyses were conducted through a Conflict Theory framework, in which power differentials contribute to inequality, and the low social position of college students. We asked the following questions: Are HSU students experiencing food insecurity? Are housing arrangements a determinant of student food insecurity? Are higher levels of mental health concerns an outcome among food insecure students? Does weight gain and/or weight loss occur among food insecure students? The 25-question online survey consisted of ten questions adapted from the USDA Adult Food Security Survey Module, three questions to gauge health and wellness concerns, and the remainder capture respondent demographics. This survey was administered to all students attending HSU during October 2014, of which 231 responded (2.8 percent response rate). Results revealed that 35 percent of respondents reported food insecurity during the past year, and an additional 35 percent of respondents were marginally food secure or at risk for becoming food insecure. Poor health and wellness outcomes were significantly associated with food insecurity. The present study suggests that HSU students are significantly at risk of experiencing food insecurity. The high rate of food insecurity among HSU students highlights the struggles and powerlessness students endure in their transitions to adulthood.