CHANGES IN FOOD CONSUMPTION IN WAR CONDITIONS

Abstract

The article examines the transformations in the structure of food consumption by the population of Ukraine under the influence of a full-scale war, which caused profound socio-economic, demographic and humanitarian shifts. The aim of the study is to analyze the impact of the armed conflict on the level of food security in the country, as well as to identify key changes in the food behavior of the population in wartime conditions. The relevance of the topic is due to the critical importance of food security as a component of national security, especially during military operations, which are accompanied by disruption of supply chains, reduction in agricultural production, population migration and increased food vulnerability of certain social groups. The research methodology is based on a comprehensive analysis of statistical data of the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, the results of sample sociological surveys, as well as information from open sources - reports of international organizations (FAO, WHO, UN World Food Program). Comparative, systemic and structural analysis methods were used, which made it possible to identify the dynamics and regional features of changes in food consumption. The results obtained show that as a result of the war, the total consumption of most basic food products decreased, especially in front-line and de-occupied territories. The consumption of protein foods - meat, fish, dairy products, as well as vegetables and fruits - decreased most significantly. At the same time, demand for long-term storage and low-cost products - cereals, pasta, bread, potatoes - increased. A change in the structure of nutrition with a transition to simplified, less balanced diets was recorded. This phenomenon is particularly acute among internally displaced persons, low-income households, the elderly, and large families. The practical value of the study lies in the development of a number of recommendations for state bodies to improve the policy of food support for the population in wartime. The proposed directions for reforming the social protection system taking into account new challenges, strengthening the targeting of assistance programs, creating strategic food reserves, supporting domestic agricultural producers, and attracting international humanitarian aid.