Ecological Studies on The Association of Food Insecurity and Malnutrition in Indonesia: A Literature Review

Abstract

This review investigates the intricate relationship between food insecurity and malnutrition in Indonesia, emphasizing the utility of ecological studies in addressing these intertwined public health challenges. Food insecurity, characterized by unreliable access to affordable and nutritious food, is linked to various malnutrition outcomes, including stunting, micronutrient deficiencies, and the emerging double burden of malnutrition. By synthesizing findings from ecological research, this review explores how socio-economic, environmental, and policy-related factors influence food security and nutritional outcomes across diverse Indonesian regions. Key findings highlight significant regional disparities driven by income levels, educational attainment, and environmental conditions such as climate variability and land use changes. Moreover, governmental interventions, including food aid programs and nutritional policies, have shown promise in mitigating food insecurity but require enhanced integration and rural focus. This review underscores the importance of ecological methodologies, which analyze group-level data to uncover patterns and determinants of food insecurity and malnutrition. Recommendations for future research include region-specific ecological studies to inform multi-sectoral strategies targeting food security and nutrition. These insights are critical for policymakers aiming to achieve sustainable improvements in public health outcomes across Indonesia.