B.2. What is food insecurity and how is it linked to hunger?
- Food insecurity refers to the lack of access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets an individual’s dietary needs and preferences, resulting in inadequate or uncertain food intake.
- FAO measures food insecurity using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES).
- Food insecurity and hunger are closely related concepts. Food insecurity can lead to hunger, as individuals may not have enough food to meet their basic energy and nutrient needs.
- Addressing food insecurity is essential in tackling hunger, as ensuring access to sufficient and nutritious food can help to prevent malnutrition and other health problems associated with hunger.