Food Consumption Behaviors and Strategies in the Face of Rising Food Prices according to Educational Level in Argentina. An Analysis Based on the Human Right to Food Approach.

Abstract

Introduction. Towards the end of 2023, Argentina faced a complex inflationary situation that affected the access to food and the quality of the diet. The aim of this study was to describe the food consumption strategies and the social and emotional status in Argentine households in inflationary contexts, and educational level, from a rights perspective.

Methods: This is an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study. Through a self-administered digital survey that explored sociodemographic characteristics and food behaviors and strategies related to food consumption in response to rising food prices, we gathered 3,592 responses between November 1 and December 21, 2023. The descriptive analysis was conducted using SPSS v26, and a reflective analysis of the results was performed from the perspective of the human right to adequate food.

Results: Of the 3,592 adults who responded, 85% were women, and 3,206 had tertiary or university studies. In those with lower educational levels, we observed a higher proportion of people who implemented strategies to mitigate price increases (p<0.01), with no differences by type of strategy. Looking for offers and sales was the most mentioned option, and reducing non-food expenses was the most frequent action, with a higher percentage in the higher education level group (p<0.01). Milk and/or yogurt and meats were the most mentioned groups to be reduced or stopped consumed. Impact on all levels of the right to adequate food was identified.

Conclusions: The behaviors and food consumption strategies of groups with different educational levels are affected by inflation. Mitigating its effects would reduce the consequences of inadequate nutrition and contribute to ensuring the right to adequate food.