What is food insecurity?

Food insecurity is defined as the lack of reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. This concept encompasses various aspects of food access, including not only the physical availability of food but also the economic and social factors that contribute to an individual's or household's ability to secure nutritious meals consistently.

This definition highlights critical elements such as reliability and affordability, emphasizing that food insecurity is not just about hunger, but also encompasses the quality and nutritional value of the food available. Access to sufficient quantities implies that individuals and families should have the means to obtain enough food to meet their dietary needs on a regular basis.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the definition of food insecurity. The notion of an abundance of food directly opposes the concept of insecurity, while the inability to prepare food at home or a preference for processed foods focuses more on personal habits and choices rather than the broader economic and access-related issues that define food insecurity.