Data from the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) show the extent of food insecurity in Greece and highlight the harsh reality many Greek households face amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, specifically detailing the number of people struggling to secure adequate and quality food.
According to the ELSTAT survey:
- 7% of the population in Greece (up from 6.5% in the previous report) reported experiencing moderate or severe food insecurity
- 1.6% (up from 1.4% previously) experienced severe insecurity, meaning there were times they went completely without food due to a lack of money or other resources
Between 2019 and 2024, the rate of moderate or severe food insecurity in Greece fluctuated between 6% and 8%, while severe insecurity remained steady at around 1.5%.
Defining food insecurity in Greece
A household is considered to have moderate or severe food insecurity if, in the twelve months prior to the survey, at least one member reported skipping meals, eating less than needed, running out of food, or being hungry but not eating due to lack of money or other resources.
Severe food insecurity refers specifically to cases where at least one member went an entire day without food for the same reasons.
Related: Greece Has Third-Highest Rate of Economic Deprivation in the EU
Greece compared to Europe
In comparison to other European countries, Greece records slightly lower rates of food insecurity than the European average.
According to FAO data (2025):
- The European average for moderate or severe food insecurity is 7.4%, and the average for severe insecurity is 1.8%.
- Greece, with rates of 6.6% and 1.5% respectively, remains close to the European average.
- Greece is significantly better off than countries like Romania (18.6%), Portugal (11.9%), and Bulgaria (11.6%).
- Very low rates are seen in Italy (1.7%), Switzerland (2%), and Luxembourg (2.6%).
Related: Close to 3 Million Greeks on the Brink of Poverty, Eurostat Says
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