Food insecurity in university students receiving financial aid.

Can J Diet Pract Res

Nutrition & Food Sciences, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB.

Published: March 2006

AI Article Synopsis

  • The study evaluated food insecurity risks among University of Alberta students living away from home and dependent on loans.
  • The research involved creating a nutritious seven-day menu, which revealed that food costs were significantly higher for certain demographics, like males and unskilled shoppers, sometimes reaching $296/month.
  • The findings indicate that current loan allocations for food (around $196/month) are insufficient, highlighting the need for better funding in student loans to ensure access to a nutritionally adequate diet.

Article Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the adequacy of loans funding and the risk for food insecurity in students living away from home and receiving loans at the University of Alberta.

Methods: A nutritious seven-day menu was developed. The menu was priced for skilled and unskilled shoppers at a grocery store near to campus and a discount-style grocery store further away.

Results: The menu was more costly for males, unskilled shoppers and those students who shopped near to campus. The menu cost was as high as $296/month and often exceeded the $196 allocated by the Canada Student Loans Program for food each month.

Conclusions: Based on the findings from this study, students reliant on financial assistance likely have insufficient money for a nutritionally adequate diet and are at risk for food insecurity. Shopping skills and budgeting, while important, would be insufficient to alleviate food insecurity for many students who require financial aid. Increased funding for food in student loans is necessary.

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Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.3148/67.1.2006.43DOI Listing

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