Food insecurity and coping strategies in international migrants in transit through Mexico

• Published in: Journal of migration and health (Online) Vol. 5; p. 100099
• Main Authors: Deschak, Caroline Irene, Infante, Cesar, Mundo-Rosas, Verónica, Aragón-Gama, Alondra Coral, Orjuela-Grimm, Manuela
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01-01-2022; Elsevier
• Subjects: Coping; Food access; Food security; Mexico; Migration; Transit; Mexico; Coping; Transit; Migration; Food security; Food access
• ISSN: 2666-6235; 2666-6235
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jmh.2022.100099

•Globally, data measuring food insecurity among migrants in transit is scarce.•74.1% of migrants in this study reported moderate or severe FI, especially reduced food quantity.•FI coping strategies used by migrants implied negative nutrition and general health implications.•The widespread and severe FI in migrant highlights a potential humanitarian crisis in the region.•Further research is critical to inform strategies for guaranteeing the right to food access for migrants.
Although migrants in transit through Mexico have been known to consume insufficient food, data measuring food insecurity (FI) in this vulnerable population is scarce. This study assesses FI in migrants transiting Mexico by examining economic, physical and social food access.
Using a mixed-methods design and a convenience sample of migrants residing in a temporary shelter in Saltillo, Coahuila in northern Mexico, we applied 1) the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (adapted), and 2) a semi-structured interview exploring FI coping strategies.
Of the 54 participants, 74.1% reported moderate or severe FI and 24.1% reported severe FI, especially reduced food quantity. Interviewees reported poverty, cargo train travel, and crime as FI contributing factors. All interviewees used FI coping strategies, principally altering food intake and using social resources. Many strategies reported implied negative consequences for both nutrition and general health.
This study provides a comprehensive assessment of FI in a mobile population using a standard international measure. Results confirm widespread and severe FI, highlighting a potential humanitarian crisis requiring both national and international attention. Further research is critical to inform strategies for guaranteeing the right to food access for migrants in transit through third (non-destination) countries.