Lessons on food security from the COVID-19 pandemic in Bermuda

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutrition Science
• Socioeconomics

Background:

• Bermuda faces high income inequality, ranking third globally among OECD countries.
• Anecdotal evidence indicated significant food demand and supply fluctuations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on food insecurity in Bermuda.
• To assess changes in food availability and affordability, focusing on vulnerable populations.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study utilizing the Bermuda Omnibus survey (N=400) for household food insecurity.
• Semi-structured interviews with key food accessibility stakeholders, analyzed using the framework method.
• Analysis of food retail and import data to evaluate price fluctuations and availability.

Main Results:

• Food aid beneficiaries consumed 50% less fruits/vegetables and 39% less fresh meat/fish compared to non-recipients.
• No statistically significant food price increases were identified, but feeding programs were vital.
• Feeding programs offered many high-sugar, salt, and fat foods, disproportionately impacting low-income groups.

Conclusions:

• Food availability in Bermuda was largely stable during the pandemic.
• Increased demand for feeding programs highlights existing food security challenges.
• Nutritional quality monitoring is essential for food assistance programs to effectively support vulnerable populations.