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Nutritional vulnerability seen within asylum seekers in Australia
Sharleen O'Reilly1, Tess O'Shea, Sibusiso Bhusumane
1Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Melbourne, VIC, 3125, Australia. sharleen.oreilly@deakin.edu.au
Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health
|January 27, 2011
Summary
Asylum seekers using food banks in Australia face significant nutritional vulnerability. Food bank provisions do not meet minimum dietary requirements, potentially leading to long-term health issues.
Area of Science:
- Public Health Nutrition
- Sociology
- Dietetics
Background:
- Asylum seekers often face food insecurity.
- Access to adequate nutrition is crucial for vulnerable populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the nutritional vulnerability of asylum seekers in Australia.
- To evaluate the adequacy of food bank provisions for meeting dietary needs.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 21 asylum seekers in Melbourne were interviewed.
- Dietary intake was assessed over 24 hours, including food bank and non-food bank sources.
- A basket audit of food bank supplies was conducted.
Main Results:
- Participants accessing food banks did not meet minimum requirements for vegetables and legumes, fruits, dairy, and meat/alternatives.
- Food bank supplies were the primary or sole food source for participants.
- Significant shortfalls were observed across multiple core food groups (P < .001).
Conclusions:
- Asylum seekers relying on food banks exhibit high nutritional vulnerability.
- Inability to meet nutritional needs from primary food sources poses health risks.
- Health professionals must recognize and address this nutritional gap in asylum seeker populations.
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