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International students hit hard by food insecurity, suggests B.C. university

Vancouver Island University researchers found that as of 2025, 52% of international students face food insecurity on campus in British Columbia.
This food insecurity results from rising inflation costs, insufficient culturally appropriate options, and unmet dietary needs among international students.
Research revealed some students skip meals, resort to dumpster-diving, eating expired food, or stealing due to lack of affordable and diverse food availability.
Gallant noted nearly 30% of international students cited cultural food barriers versus less than 10% of domestic peers, while about 4% admitted risky behaviors like shoplifting.
Researchers and VIU suggest campus-wide initiatives and funded student programs could address growing demand despite a projected $400,000 deficit for 2025.

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