Matusikkerhet under den første fasen av koronapandemien blant innvandrere og for hele befolkningen i Norge

Abstract

Background: Immigrants make up 15% of the population but represent 30–40% of positive cases of COVID-19 in Norway. Infection control measures and business closures lead to economic recession. Food insecurity exists in situations of limited or insecure access to nutritionally adequate and safe food and can affect the population in times of crisis. The aim of this project was to investigate food insecurity among the entire population and immigrants during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: In an additional round of the Citizens’ Panel (NMP), 4,025 respondents answered the question, «During the corona pandemic, have you been worried that you will run out of food before you can buy again?» The same question, translated into five languages (Somali, Polish, Tamil, Arabic and Spanish) was answered by 529 immigrants as part of the study Inncovid.Norway a few weeks later. Main findings: Among NMP respondents, 16% had ever and 1% often been concerned about running out of food. The corresponding percentages were 31% and 7% for immigrants, with differences among groups. Conclusion: The corona pandemic affects food security in the Norwegian society and particularly affects immigrants. Evaluation and coverage of such a basic need should be a priority for the authorities.