Change in eating habits during the Spanish COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: evidence for a sample of university community

Abstract

Background The stress and anxiety caused by COVID-19 lockdown may have changed the eating habits of the population. Our aim is to assess the eating changes that have taken place due to the pandemic. Methods Data were collected through an electronic survey created by the Health Economics Research Group of the University of Cantabria and IDIVAL and conducted between 14/01/2021 and 19/02/2021. A total of 1,417 responses were recorded, but only 507 complete observations were considered. We carried out a cross-sectional analysis through ordered probit regressions. Results The improvement in post-confinement eating habits is associated with higher income level, better self-assessed health status and more physical activity. The worsening of eating habits is associated with having a certain level of nomophobia or the fear of contagion. Conclusions Our analysis can be used for designing and implementing new strategies to overcome the negative spill overs of the COVID-19 pandemic and improve the dietary patterns.