Being a university student has long been associated with eating instant noodles, taking advantage of pub meal deals and generally living frugally.

But for several years, researchers have been tracking how students are not getting enough food to eat. This can have an impact on their mental and physical health as well as their academic performance.

In new research, we look at how the problem is getting worse.

In March 2022 and March 2024, we surveyed University of Tasmania students about their access to food.

More than 1,200 students participated in the first survey and more than 1,600 participated in the second. Students were recruited through university-wide emails and social media and included both undergraduate and postgraduate students from a range of disciplines.

We used an internationally recognised survey to assess food insecurity. It can tell us whether students are struggling and to what extent.

It........

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