The role of food-related strategies and social support: A qualitative study on the lived experiences with food among income-eligible food assistance beneficiaries

This qualitative study examined the lived experiences of food among food assistance beneficiaries in New York, United States to conceptualize potential determinants of nutrition security, an emerging term that expands on food insecurity by emphasizing access to nutritious food that promotes well-being. Through interviews (n = 26) and a grounded theory approach, four themes were identified under one central theme: implementing strategies (e.g. compromising with household members, utilizing sales and discounts, meal prepping) across different stages of food work, or the tasks and labor associated with eating, may play a role in nutrition security attainment. Furthermore, the types of strategies employed to obtain nutrition security changes and are dynamically influenced by social and material capital, the food environment, and life history. This study builds on developing nutrition security frameworks and measures by highlighting the role of food-related strategies and social support in alleviating challenges with food work among adults who qualify for or receive food assistance benefits.