Work Conditions and Family Food Insecurity Among Adults Ages 18-64: United States, 2021
National Health Statistics Reports
|April 7, 2025
Summary
Work conditions like rotating shifts, inflexible schedules, and fluctuating earnings increase the risk of family food insecurity among working adults. These findings highlight the impact of employment on household well-being.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology of Work
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Family food insecurity remains a significant public health concern, particularly among working populations.
- Employment conditions can influence household economic stability and access to adequate nutrition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between specific work conditions and family food insecurity among working adults aged 18-64.
- To identify employment factors that may exacerbate or mitigate food insecurity.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 2021 National Health Interview Survey data from working adults.
- Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess associations.
- Adjustments were made for a comprehensive set of demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related confounders.
Main Results:
- In 2021, 4.4% of working adults experienced family food insecurity.
- Rotating or non-day shifts (5.7%) and work schedule inflexibility (6.3%) were associated with higher food insecurity rates.
- Monthly earnings fluctuations also correlated with increased food insecurity (5.5% for moderate to large changes).
Conclusions:
- Work conditions, including shift type, schedule flexibility, and earnings stability, are significantly associated with family food insecurity.
- These findings underscore the need for policies and workplace practices that support economic stability for working families.
- Addressing employment-related factors is crucial for improving food security outcomes.
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