Overview

Food security is often viewed as a critical foundation for health and well-being, but how do national food systems shape the lived experience of food insecurity? While individual food insecurity is known to negatively affect quality of life, the broader social and policy environments in which people live can either intensify or alleviate these impacts.

Drawing on data from more than 69,000 people across 47 countries, this seminar explores the complex relationship between food insecurity, national food security and subjective well-being. The research reveals that food insecurity affects well-being not only through material hardship, but also through psychosocial factors such as feelings of relative deprivation, loss of control and social isolation.

Importantly, the findings challenge the assumption that stronger national food systems are always protective. While some dimensions of national food security can help buffer the negative effects of food insecurity, others may inadvertently amplify feelings of inequality and disadvantage. By introducing a new “dual-pathway of resources and evaluation” framework, this study offers fresh insights into how macro-level food environments shape individual experiences and well-being outcomes.

Join us for an engaging discussion on the intersection of food security, social inequality and well-being and explore what these findings mean for policymakers seeking to build more resilient, equitable and people-centred food systems.