Increased food prices and changes in food consumption behavior: an early precursor to malnutrition, and widespread food insecurity among the Egyptian population.

Abstract

Recent increases in food prices in Egypt have raised concerns about their impact on dietary patterns and household food security (FS), particularly among economically vulnerable groups, forcing families to reduce dietary diversity and nutrient intake. This may indirectly contribute to an increased risk of malnutrition and chronic diseases. To identify changes in food consumption behavior (food choices and dietary patterns) among Egyptian households following food inflation and determine the levels and predictors of food insecurity (FI). An online cross-sectional survey of 723 Egyptian households from June to December 2024. Data was collected using a pretested structured questionnaire targeting household heads. The tool assessed sociodemographic characteristics, food consumption changes, and FS status. Most participants reported increased food expenditure (58.2%) with dietary shift toward cheaper carbohydrate-rich staple foods (55.2%). Reduced consumption of animal protein and dairy products was also observed. Overall, 64.6% of households experienced FI: 15.8% mild, 27.5% moderate, and 20.3% severe levels. Significant predictors of FI included female respondents (OR = 2.425, P < .001), maternal unemployment [odds ratio (OR) = 1.597, P = .018], low household income (OR = 1.774, P = .001), maternal financial responsibility (OR = 3.432, P < .001), the presence of a family member with chronic disease (OR = 1.748, P = .002), and a current smoking father (OR = 1.711, P = .004). Increased food prices lead to changes in food consumption patterns with shifts toward less nutritionally valuable foods and deprive most households of FS. Therefore, there is an urgent need for national nutrition health education programs to help households optimize the use of limited household budgets to achieve a balanced diet.