Food insecurity in the COVID-19 pandemic: situation of countryside families in the Brazilian Federal District

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic associated with territorial conflicts contributed to a significant increase in hunger in the world, especially in the most vulnerable populations, such as rural populations. Objective: To verify the situation of food insecurity, especially in terms of access, and determining factors in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in families served in a Basic Health Unit – rural UBS in the Federal District, Brazil. Methodology: This is a quantitative, descriptive study with a cross-sectional design. Data collection was carried out with 53 families between November and December 2021, using the Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale (EBIA) and a questionnaire on socioeconomic, demographic, rural context and pandemic factors. Regarding statistical analyses, quantitative variables were described in frequencies, and qualitative variables in prevalence. For associations, the Chi-square test and Fischer's exact test were used, considering 5% significance. Results and Discussion: it was found that 58.5% of families experienced food insecurity, while 41.5% were food secure. The variables associated with food insecurity were: living in a rented home, lack of access to treated water, unemployment, precarious employment relationships, lack of land ownership, low income, not working using pesticides, receiving benefits through transfer programs of income and decreased income during the pandemic. Conclusion: It was concluded that there is a need for a multisectoral and equitable approach in intersectoral public policies aimed at addressing food insecurity in the countryside, especially in light of the context caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.