Food insecurities during the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK and consumption adaptation.

Abstract

Introduction Covid-19 and Brexit have disrupted retail supply chains and led to economic uncertainty. This paper seeks to understand the experiences of consumers in terms of their food security and their emotion and practical responses. Our research maps how grocery consumption patterns and practices have changed and assesses the likely longevity of these behavioural shifts. Methods & Design Consumers attitudes, perceptions and behavioural changes regarding grocery shopping through the pandemic were researched through inductive semi-structured interviews. Consumers, including those designated as clinically vulnerable, were sampled to highlight retail supply concerns; population level challenges and behavioural responses. Data was analysed thematically. Results Food access experiences revealed the shortages experienced and the impact that this had. Impacts included, generating widespread anxiety regarding food insecurity and isolated instances of compromised physical health. A range of factors served to compound or temper this anxiety. Behavioural adaptations such as increased on-line shopping and local patronage emerged. Diversified food supply can encourage shorter, nimble supply chains. Local suppliers can stimulate markets, encourage community resilience and reassure consumers regarding access. Long-term behavioural changes are likely in response to the disruption and innovation. Conclusions Findings reveal first insights into the consumer impacts from the disrupted retail supply chains and map behavioural changes and retail sector adaptations that may prove effective long-term strategies. Opportunities for businesses to expand direct routes to market reflecting retail displacement, and longterm significance regarding online and local shopping capacity are highlighted. Greater coordination and transparency of local supply to ensure access, provide additional routes to market and build supply chain resilience to reassure consumers is encouraged.