By Joseph Giandonato, PhD, MBA, CSCS

While global conflicts and economic instability dominate headlines, a quieter crisis continues to impact an entire generation: food insecurity among Gen Z.

A report compiled by researchers at Purdue University found that approximately 1 in 3 members of Generation Z experience food insecurity. Younger Gen Z individuals, those without a college degree, and those earning below the federal poverty line are particularly vulnerable.

Regionally, the data is equally concerning. Between 2019 and 2023, younger Gen Z adults were reported to have the highest rates of food insecurity among all age groups in New Jersey, while in Pennsylvania, food insecurity increased across all age groups, with younger adults and teenagers experiencing the greatest impact.

Food insecurity does not only affect access to meals—it also directly impacts educational outcomes.

Research shows that food insecurity negatively affects academic performance both directly and indirectly. Among children, it can impair neurocognitive development, resulting in reduced performance on exams and assignments. It is also associated with greater absenteeism, increased tardiness, and higher susceptibility to bullying. Children raised in food-insecure households are also less likely to attend—and ultimately graduate from—college.

Among undergraduate students, food insecurity rates range from 25–34%, with some institutions reporting rates approaching 50%. Notably, food insecurity among undergraduate students is estimated to be approximately double the rate of food insecurity among all U.S. households.

The consequences extend beyond the classroom. Food insecurity among college students contributes to health concerns, diminished academic performance, and increased risk of attrition. Achieving food security has become increasingly difficult due to rising inflation, higher costs of living, and escalating tuition and fees across the higher education sector.

While campus food pantries and collection efforts are commendable and well-intentioned, much more must be done to address the needs of food-insecure students.

Proposed solutions include:

• Providing complimentary or subsidized meal plans for qualifying students

• Offering workshops and webinars on sourcing affordable groceries, meal preparation, and food preservation techniques

• Aligning campus resources—including advising, student life, health and wellness services, and the bursar’s office—to help identify and support at-risk students

• Establishing partnerships with local businesses and nonprofit organizations to strengthen community-based support systems

Addressing food insecurity among college students should be viewed not as an expense, but as a strategic investment. A generation that is sufficiently nourished and supported will be healthier, more productive, and better positioned to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.

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About the Author

Joseph Giandonato, PhD, MBA, CSCS has more than 15 years of experience in the health and wellness sector, having served as an employee wellness consultant, campus recreation administrator, strength and conditioning coach, and educator.

He currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Exercise Science in the Department of Nursing and Health Sciences at Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey.

Previously, Dr. Giandonato held adjunct faculty appointments at Chestnut Hill College, Bryn Athyn College, and Eastern University while supporting an award-winning employee wellness program at a major research university in the Mid-Atlantic region.

He also served as Assistant Director of the Student Activity Center at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), where he oversaw physical wellness programming for the campus community. Prior to that, he worked as Manager of Health Promotion at Drexel University, assisting with oversight of employee wellness programs and fitness facilities within the Drexel Recreation Center.

Earlier in his career, Dr. Giandonato worked as a performance coach in private practice and held positions at Germantown Academy and Saint Joseph’s University in similar roles.

He earned a PhD in Exercise Science, a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Science in Exercise Science, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Since 2010, he has maintained the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) credential through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

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Commentary by the author does not necessarily represent the views of organizations with which he has been affiliated.