A cross-sectional survey shows food insecurity in Australia is linked to lower diet satisfaction and poorer mental and physical health. This shows a need for focused support from health professionals and further research on the long-term effects of food insecurity.
ABSTRACT
Aim
Food insecurity has been shown to compromise diet and lead to poorer mental and physical health outcomes. However, evidence in the Australian context remains limited. This study explored associations between food insecurity and self-rated diet satisfaction, mental and physical health among Australian adults.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey of Australian adults ( ≥ 18 years) residing in Tasmania was conducted between December 2023 and January 2024. Food insecurity was assessed using the 18-item US Household Food Security Survey Module. Participants were classified as food secure (score = 0), or food insecure (score = 1 +). Self-rated diet satisfaction, mental and physical health were assessed using five-point Likert scales, collapsed to binary variables (excellent-good and fair-poor health, satisfied or dissatisfied with diet). Multivariate binary logistic regression, adjusting for relevant sociodemographic factors explored associations.
Results
Of participants (n = 869, 73.4% female, 64.3% university education), 29.2% experienced food insecurity, 29.6% reported fair-poor mental health, 26.4% reported fair-poor physical health and 19.7% reported diet dissatisfaction. In multivariate models, a stepwise pattern was observed, with food insecurity showing the strongest association with diet dissatisfaction (AOR: 4.4; SE: 1.5; [95% CI: 2.9–6.5]); followed by fair–poor mental health (AOR: 2.6; SE: 0.2; [95% CI: 1.8–3.9]); and fair–poor physical health (AOR: 1.6; SE: 0.2; [95% CI: 1.1–2.5]).
Conclusion
Food insecurity among Australian adults is associated with lower diet satisfaction and poorer mental and physical health, reflecting constrained agency in food choice. Dietitians have a key role in addressing these impacts at both individual and system levels, including improving access, affordability, and equity in the food system.
Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Volume 39, Issue 3, June 2026. Read More