Determinants of household vulnerability to food insecurity during COVID-19 lockdown in a mid-term period in Iran.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify and rank the different aspects of households' vulnerability to food insecurity.

DESIGN

The data were collected by a standard online questionnaire. The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale was used to assess food insecurity levels, and first-order structural equation modelling was applied to determine factors that affect food insecurity. Seven dimensions of vulnerability were measured: economic, social, cultural, human, physical, psychology and information, using thirty-seven items extracted from the related literature review.

SETTING

This study was implemented in Tehran province in Iran.

PARTICIPANTS

The sample included 392 families residing in Tehran province which was determined using random sampling.

RESULTS

About 61 % of the total sample faced food insecurity, at marginal, moderate and severe levels. Economic, psychological and human aspects of vulnerability had the highest effect on food insecurity during the initial COVID-19 lockdown.

CONCLUSIONS

Authorities and policymakers must provide economic and financial support to vulnerable households. Abolition of US economic and financial sanctions imposed on Iran must be implemented to battle with COVID-19 in this country.