Food Insecurity in Jamaica Caused by Covid-19 Increase

A report from the United States Department of Agriculture reveals that the worsening situation connected to food insecurity is linked to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The USDA’s economic research service did a new report that revealed that 12.8% of the Jamaican population is currently food insecure. This is equated to 400,000 people which is double pre-covid-19 projections.

The new study revealed that 400,000 people, an increase of about 100% above pre-Covid-19 projections are now food insecure.

A previous report had stated that 200,000 Jamaicans would be food insecure by the end of 2020, The pandemic has caused their projections to increase by 100 % which is double the projections made before. The food insecurity is primarily affecting single parent or female-headed households.

The world food program Covid-19 food security and livelihood impact survey 70% of respondents reported skipping meals or eating less. They also reported a shrinking of food in their households as they face difficulties.

17% of the respondents in the survey reported difficulties eating enough in the crisis 20% even reported having no food at home. 1 in 10 reported going a full day without food

1 in 3 persons reported skipping meals, eating less and a reduction in their food stocks.

The survey placed more light on the situation in Jamaica, it was first driven by covid-19 restrictions and the lockdowns.