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22 pages, 3005 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk Transmission and Resilience of China’s Corn Import Trade Network

by Jun Wu and Jing Zhu

Foods 2025, 14(8), 1401; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14081401 - 18 Apr 2025

Viewed by 326

Abstract

The global corn trade is an important pillar of the agricultural economy, but its supply chain is vulnerable to geopolitical conflicts, climate change, and market volatility. As one of the major importers of corn in the world, China has long relied on the [...] Read more.

The global corn trade is an important pillar of the agricultural economy, but its supply chain is vulnerable to geopolitical conflicts, climate change, and market volatility. As one of the major importers of corn in the world, China has long relied on the United States and Ukraine, and the risk of import concentration is prominent. The complicated international situation intensifies the external uncertainty of China’s import supply chain. This study utilized bilateral trade data from 2010 to 2023 and employed advanced methodologies including complex network modeling, network index quantification, and simulation analysis to assess the impacts of external risks from major trading partners on China’s corn import system and trace risk transmission pathways. The research objectives focused on examining the structural evolution of China’s corn import trade network over the past decade, evaluating its resilience against external shocks, and identifying the critical roles played by key node countries in risk propagation mechanisms. The results showed that the resilience of China’s corn import trade network had been enhanced in recent years and that the complementarity of planting cycles in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and the adjustment of trade structure caused by the Russia–Ukraine conflict had improved its risk resistance. The United States, France, Romania, and Turkey were key intermediate nodes in risk transmission due to their geographical advantages and trade hub statuses. The risk transmission path presented regional heterogeneity. China should strengthen trade with countries in the Southern Hemisphere and built a more stable import system by taking advantage of complementary resource endowments and growth periods. Bilateral agreements with transit countries could ensure security of supply. Reserve centers and modern logistics infrastructure should be built in key areas. In addition, platforms such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership could promote harmonized standards and digital support for corn trade, and regional financial instruments and supply chain optimization could have balanced risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity: Causes, Consequences and Remedies—Volume II)

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11 pages, 523 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Food Security in Mediterranean Diet Adherence Among Adolescents: Findings from the EHDLA Study

by Andrea Aquino-Blanco, Estela Jiménez-López, Desirée Victoria-Montesinos, Héctor Gutiérrez-Espinoza, Jorge Olivares-Arancibia, Rodrigo Yañéz-Sepúlveda, Nerea Martín-Calvo and José Francisco López-Gil

Foods 2025, 14(3), 414; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14030414 - 27 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1168

Abstract

Food insecurity is a growing public health concern, particularly among vulnerable groups such as adolescents, and it has been linked to poor nutritional outcomes and increased risk of chronic diseases. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is recognized for its numerous health benefits, yet few [...] Read more.

Food insecurity is a growing public health concern, particularly among vulnerable groups such as adolescents, and it has been linked to poor nutritional outcomes and increased risk of chronic diseases. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is recognized for its numerous health benefits, yet few studies have explored the association between food insecurity and adherence to the MedDiet among adolescents, especially in Mediterranean regions. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between food insecurity and adherence to the MedDiet in a sample of adolescents from Spain. Methods: Data were acquired from 2021–2022 school years from adolescents aged 12–17 years enrolled in different secondary schools in Valle de Ricote, Region of Murcia, Spain. Food security was assessed via the Spanish Child Food Security Survey Module (CFSSM-S), and adherence to the MedDiet was assessed via the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for Children and Adolescents (KIDMED). A total of 836 participants were involved, and statistical analyses were conducted via linear regression models adjusted for lifestyle, anthropometric, and sociodemographic covariates. Results: After adjusting for potential confounders, the mean KIDMED score was 7.0 (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.7 to 7.2) in the food-security group, 6.8 (95% CI 6.3 to 7.3) in the low-security group, and 5.9 (95% CI 4.9 to 6.9) in the very-low-security group. Notable differences were observed between participants with food security and their counterparts with very low food security (p = 0.040). Compared with those with food security (57.2%, 95% CI 51.5% to 62.8%), a significantly greater likelihood of having nonoptimal adherence to the MedDiet was identified in adolescents with low food security (61.6%, 95% CI 50.4% to 71.8%) and in those with very low food security (77.4%, 95% CI 54.5% to 90.7%). We identified a significant difference only between adolescents with food security and their peers with very low food security (p = 0.036). Conclusions: The findings suggest that very low food security negatively impacts MedDiet adherence in adolescents. Compared with their food-secure peers, adolescents with very low food security showed significantly poorer diet quality. These results highlight the importance of addressing food insecurity through low-cost, high-nutrition programs aimed at improving healthy eating habits, particularly for children and adolescents living in low-food-security households. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity: Causes, Consequences and Remedies—Volume II)

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15 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond the Classroom: The Influence of Food Insecurity, Mental Health, and Sleep Quality on University Students’ Academic Performance

by Alejandra Betancourt-Núñez, Rosa Díaz, Pablo Alejandro Nava-Amante, María Fernanda Bernal-Orozco, Andrés Díaz-López, Aaron González Palacios, Fabiola Márquez-Sandoval, Davis Velarde-Camaqui and Barbara Vizmanos

Foods 2024, 13(16), 2508; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13162508 - 11 Aug 2024

Viewed by 5388

Abstract

We aimed to analyze the association between food insecurity (FI) and academic performance in university students, including mental health and sleep quality (SQ), in an association model. A cross-sectional design included university students (n = 466, 72.5% women) from Mexico. We applied [...] Read more.

We aimed to analyze the association between food insecurity (FI) and academic performance in university students, including mental health and sleep quality (SQ), in an association model. A cross-sectional design included university students (n = 466, 72.5% women) from Mexico. We applied the Latin American and Caribbean Food Security Scale, the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Students self-reported their academic grading (AG) and perceptions about their academic performance. Spearman’s rho and multiple logistic regression models were used. Almost half (47%) experienced some level of FI. The median AG was 95. AG was not significantly (p > 0.05) correlated with FI, nor with depression, anxiety, stress, and SQ. Considering mental health and SQ, moderate/severe FI remained significantly associated with perceived overall progress in college (OR: 2.96; 95%CI: 1.49, 5.88) and attendance to classes (OR:3.14; 95%CI: 1.19, 8.28) as poor or regular, and it was positively related to perceiving difficulties in completing their studies (OR:2.75; 95%CI: 1.43, 5.29). Stress, anxiety, depression symptoms, and poor SQ were also significantly associated with poor/regular perception of academic performance. These findings highlight the need to address psychological and nutritional factors in university students to promote their well-being and academic success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity: Causes, Consequences and Remedies—Volume II)

20 pages, 1051 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clusters of Sociodemographic Characteristics and Their Association with Food Insecurity in Mexican University Students

by Pablo Alejandro Nava-Amante, Alejandra Betancourt-Núñez, Andrés Díaz-López, María Fernanda Bernal-Orozco, Ulises De la Cruz-Mosso, Fabiola Márquez-Sandoval and Barbara Vizmanos

Foods 2024, 13(16), 2507; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13162507 - 10 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1651

Abstract

Food insecurity (FI) expresses irregular access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food. We analyze the association between clusters of sociodemographic characteristics and FI in university students from Mexico. The Latin American and Caribbean Food Security Scale was applied, and household type, socioeconomic status [...] Read more.

Food insecurity (FI) expresses irregular access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food. We analyze the association between clusters of sociodemographic characteristics and FI in university students from Mexico. The Latin American and Caribbean Food Security Scale was applied, and household type, socioeconomic status (SES), and the characteristics of the head of the household, among others, were asked in a cross-sectional study. We performed Two-Step cluster analysis and logistic regression models. We included 466 university students (72.5% women, 47% with FI). We identified three clusters; Cluster-1 (n = 163) included a single-parent (37.4%) or co-resident/roommate (27%) household type, middle SES (63.2%); the head of the household is usually a woman (76.1%), single (71.8%), and with bachelor’s degree (41.7%) or less educational level (46.6%). Cluster-2 (n = 144) included the nuclear (89.6%) household type, high SES (76.4%); the head of the household is usually a man (79.2%), in a relationship (99.3%), and with a bachelor’s degree (63.2%) or graduate level (33.3%). Cluster-3 (n = 147) is very similar to Cluster-2. The difference is that Cluster-3 includes middle SES (70.1%), and the head of the household’s educational level is high school or less (100%). Only belonging to Cluster-1 was positively associated with FI (OR = 1.96, 95%CI: 1.24, 3.09). These results show the interrelationships between multiple sociodemographic characteristics and should contribute to developing interventions that simultaneously address numerous sociodemographic factors to diminish FI in university students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity: Causes, Consequences and Remedies—Volume II)

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18 pages, 832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Food Acquirability: An Unexplored Component of Food Security?

by Emeka Franklin Okpala, Lilian Korir and Louise Manning

Foods 2024, 13(13), 2052; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13132052 - 27 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1791

Abstract

The key elements, or pillars, of food security are stated as food availability, food access, food utilization, and stability. These food security pillars are often linked to food security interventions at the national, community or household level. However, if the urban ‘household’ is [...] Read more.

The key elements, or pillars, of food security are stated as food availability, food access, food utilization, and stability. These food security pillars are often linked to food security interventions at the national, community or household level. However, if the urban ‘household’ is the unit of interest for any food security intervention, this research asks if a more holistic element, or pillar, is needed. The aim of this research has been to explore the socio-economic aspects of food security/insecurity that we have termed as a result of the research “food acquirability”. Through the use of structured questionnaires (n = 120), and analysis of the data derived from local market and supermarket settings in the city of Awka, Nigeria, the concept of food acquirability has emerged and been conceptualized and critiqued. The contribution of this paper is to frame the concept of acquirability with regard to food security in Nigeria in order to develop a better understanding of the factors that impact household urban food security/insecurity and how they can be effectively mitigated. Factors of acquirability that emerged were culture, time poverty, resource availability and cooking skills, and household food preference and meal choice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity: Causes, Consequences and Remedies—Volume II)

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13 pages, 249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Food Environments on Dietary Habits: Insights from a Quasi-Experimental Research

by Terrence W. Thomas and Murat Cankurt

Foods 2024, 13(13), 2013; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13132013 - 26 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2975

Abstract

Nutrition is a vital factor that exerts a profound and direct impact on health. Food environments significantly influence individuals’ dietary behaviors, health outcomes, and overall food security. Individuals in food deserts and food swamps do not have access to healthier food options. And [...] Read more.

Nutrition is a vital factor that exerts a profound and direct impact on health. Food environments significantly influence individuals’ dietary behaviors, health outcomes, and overall food security. Individuals in food deserts and food swamps do not have access to healthier food options. And in both cases, the emphasis is primarily on the physical configuration of the environment as it relates to food availability. This quasi-experimental study aims to investigate the impact of two different food environments (defined to include a social component) on food choices. A total of 246 participants were surveyed by telephone, half of whom were primed with Scenario A (a food environment deficient in healthy options and cues that support and reinforce healthier choices) and half were primed with Scenario B (an environment with an abundance of healthy food options and cues that support and reinforce healthy eating). Ordered logit regression was used for analysis. The results show significant differences in likely food consumption between the groups. Individuals in Scenario B were found to be 4.48 times more likely to consume fruits and vegetables. In addition, it was determined that being a woman increases the probability of consuming more fruits and vegetables by 0.92 times (1/0.52–1), and adherence to a healthy diet increases by 3.64 times. Age and race were not significant predictors. This study highlights the crucial role of environmental factors in shaping dietary habits and underscores the importance of the social components of the food environment in promoting the adoption of healthier dietary habits. Based on these findings, policymakers should prioritize developing strategies that go beyond providing physical access and consider social aspects of the environment in promoting healthy eating habits to improve public health and bolster the food security of communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity: Causes, Consequences and Remedies—Volume II)

21 pages, 1156 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unveiling Digital Transformation: A Catalyst for Enhancing Food Security and Achieving Sustainable Development Goals at the European Union Level

by Anca Antoaneta Vărzaru

Foods 2024, 13(8), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13081226 - 17 Apr 2024

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2863

Abstract

The digital revolution is reshaping various aspects of society, including having a profound impact on food security and the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study investigates the relationship between digital transformation, quantified through the components of the Digital Economy and Society [...] Read more.

The digital revolution is reshaping various aspects of society, including having a profound impact on food security and the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study investigates the relationship between digital transformation, quantified through the components of the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), and SDGs related to food (SDG1, SDG2, SDG3, and SDG10), along with the overall SDG Index score. The data used for investigation are sourced from reports issued by the European Commission concerning DESI, as well as the SDG reports for the period from 2017 to 2022. The paper elucidates how different components of digitalization, such as connectivity, digital skills, internet usage, and digital public services, influence the attainment of food security objectives and broader sustainable development targets using structural equation modeling and cluster analysis. The findings underscore the pivotal role of digital technologies in enhancing poverty alleviation, health and well-being, and, in particular, mitigating inequality. This study contributes to understanding the complex relationship between digital transformation and food security, offering insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders aiming to leverage technology for advancing SDGs and fostering a more equitable and sustainable future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity: Causes, Consequences and Remedies—Volume II)

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Review

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32 pages, 7797 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sustainability in Global Agri-Food Supply Chains: Insights from a Comprehensive Literature Review and the ABCDE Framework

by Gaofeng Wang, Yingying Wang, Shuai Li, Yang Yi, Chenming Li and Changhoon Shin

Foods 2024, 13(18), 2914; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13182914 - 14 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 11184

Abstract

The sustainability of global agricultural produce supply chains is crucial for ensuring global food security, fostering environmental protection, and advancing socio-economic development. This study integrates bibliometric analysis, knowledge mapping, and the ABCDE framework to conduct a comprehensive qualitative and quantitative analysis of 742 [...] Read more.

The sustainability of global agricultural produce supply chains is crucial for ensuring global food security, fostering environmental protection, and advancing socio-economic development. This study integrates bibliometric analysis, knowledge mapping, and the ABCDE framework to conduct a comprehensive qualitative and quantitative analysis of 742 relevant articles from the Web of Science core database spanning January 2009 to July 2023. Initially, bibliometric analysis and knowledge mapping reveal the annual progression of research on the sustainability of global agricultural produce supply chains, the collaborative networks among research institutions and authors, and the geographic distribution of research activities worldwide, successfully pinpointing the current research focal points. Subsequently, the ABCDE framework, constructed from the quantitative findings, helps us identify and comprehend the antecedents, barriers and challenges, impacts, and driving forces affecting the sustainability of these supply chains. The study identifies globalization and technological advancement as the primary forces shaping the sustainability of agricultural produce supply chains, despite them also posing challenges such as resource constraints and environmental pressures. Moreover, the application of innovative technologies, the optimization of organizational models, and active stakeholder engagement are key to propelling supply chains toward more sustainable development, exerting a profound impact on society, the environment, and the economy. In conclusion, this study suggests future research directions. The integrated methodology presented offers new perspectives and deep insights into the complexities of sustainable global agricultural produce supply chains, demonstrating its potential to foster knowledge innovation and practical applications, providing valuable insights for academic research and policy formulation in this domain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Insecurity: Causes, Consequences and Remedies—Volume II)

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