URBAN RESILIENCE AND FOOD SECURITY IN THE EARLY COVID-19 PANDEMIC

EMPIRICAL INSIGHTS FROM ONLINE SURVEY

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted food supply chains and income sources, threatening household food security worldwide. Using an online survey of 1,495 households across 32 provinces in Indonesia during September–October 2020, this study investigates the determinants of food security and coping strategies among predominantly urban households. Food security was measured using the USDA household food security index, while socio-demographic and economic characteristics were analysed with an ordered probit model. Results show that 36.2% of households experienced food insecurity, with the most vulnerable being those with lower education, informal jobs, and lower expenditures. Urban middle-class households relied on savings, reduced consumption of expensive foods, and shifted to online food purchasing and home cooking as key coping strategies. Social assistance programs were critical in preventing deeper deprivation, but coverage remained limited among informal workers. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening urban resilience through digital food systems, adaptive social protection, and support for vulnerable groups in times of crisis. Beyond the COVID-19 context, the study provides insights for designing more responsive food security and social protection policies in Indonesia and other emerging economies.