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The global Covid-19 pandemic has brought about significant disruptions, forcing people to adapt to new norms and changes in their daily lives. Among these changes, an alarming increase in food insecurity has been observed, particularly among university students. Food insecurity, characterised by limited access to quality and nutritious food, poses serious consequences for the health, well-being, and academic performance of students. This study sought to determine the underlying factors contributing to this issue among university students at UiTM Cawangan Pulau Pinang, focusing on the post-Covid-19 era. Drawing from a comprehensive review of the literature, three key factors were identified as contributors to food insecurity among university students in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic: increasing food prices, financial limitations, and poor financial management skills. To gain insights into these matters, a survey questionnaire was conducted among 324 students at UiTM Cawangan Pulau Pinang. The findings revealed that all the proposed contributing factors had a significant impact on the prevalence of food insecurity. Notably, financial limitations arising from low income and inadequate financial resources emerged as key determinants of food insecurity. Additionally, the study underscored the vital role of financial management skills in mitigating food insecurity among students. This study serves as an important starting point in understanding the factors contributing to food insecurity among university students in the post-Covid-19 era. However, further research is warranted to enhance the generalizability of the findings. Replicating this study in different locations with a larger sample size would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing food insecurity. Such research endeavours will be instrumental in informing policymakers and stakeholders in developing targeted interventions to address the multifaceted challenges faced by university students in attaining food security.

Food insecurity, university students, food prices, financial management skills, financial limitation, nutrition knowledge