Impact of COVID-19-induced economic disruptions on food consumption patterns among low- and middle-income communities in Bangladesh

Abstract

Abstract

This study examines the prevalence and socioeconomic determinants of food consumption changes among low- and middle-income communities in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on pandemic-induced financial vulnerabilities. Using a cross-sectional mixed-methods design, the study surveyed 405 respondents (income: BDT 0-29006) and conducted 20 in-depth and key informant interviews to identify the extent and factors associated with food habit changes under financial stress. The results indicated that 59.3% of participants reported a change in their food habits. Among those reporting changes, 22.1% reported reduced meal frequency, 79.6% reduced consumption quantity, 54.2% shifted to cheaper food items, and 73.7% reported consuming less nutritious food. This shift was closely associated with financial instability due to factors such as job loss (64.1%), a transition to lower-quality employment (76.7%), reduced income (62.7%), the use of savings (67%), or the acquisition of loans (59.8%). Furthermore, the study revealed a statistically significant correlation between altered food habits and various socioeconomic characteristics. Multivariate logistic regression showed that food habit change was significantly associated with sex, age, place of residence, education, income reduction, job change, and use of savings. Notably, the pandemic’s impact on financial crises and food habits was severe among younger individuals, those with lower educational attainment, daily wage earners, informal sector workers, and residents of tourist zones. The findings suggest the need for both short-term and long-term initiatives aimed at helping these vulnerable populations adapt, build resilience, and recover from the changes brought about by the post-pandemic era and potential future pandemics.