food security
noun
: the fact or an instance of being able to consistently access or afford adequate food
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines "food security" as access at all times by all people within a household to enough food for an active, healthy life. "Food insecurity," on the other hand, occurs when a household's consistent access to adequate food is limited by a lack of money and other resources at times during the year.—Elyse Miller
… the percentage of households with very low food security jumped to 5.7 percent last year …—Tony Pugh
Cite this Entry
“Food security.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/food%20security. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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