Danone reveals evolving dynamics of food insecurity in COVID-19 era

The survey found food banks act as a lifeline for many when it comes to providing their families with healthy and nutritious food

Danone North America’s Two Good^® Yogurt has released results from an online survey conducted around the impact and prevalence of food insecurity in the U.S. – an issue greatly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commissioned by Two Good, a brand which has taken on the mission of reducing food waste and fighting food insecurity while keeping our planet top-of-mind, the survey aims to raise awareness of food insecurity and inspire communities to give back. It serves as a timely reminder during the upcoming holiday season as well, when food waste and food insecurity typically spike in communities throughout the US.

The survey inquired about the experiences of 2,000 Americans, and found that 79% of survey respondents struggled to find the support they needed when they were faced with food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sixty percent of respondents said that the expiration of federal stimulus programs made it more difficult to provide food for their family, and 37% have skipped meals so their children could eat.

For many, the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent increase of related conversation in the news brought food insecurity into focus as an important cause to support. In fact, nearly six in ten respondents shared they specifically want to volunteer with an organization that fights food insecurity. They are interested in learning more about these issues, but 58% said they don’t know where to go to educate themselves further.

The survey also found food banks act as a lifeline for many when it comes to providing their families with healthy and nutritious food. Of those who went to food banks, six in ten said they had access to healthier options than before experiencing food insecurity. Mental wellbeing is impacted as well, with a majority (63%) of those who rely on food banks reporting that receiving assistance brings peace of mind due to the quality food options available to keep their families healthy.