Which is a dimension used to describe food security?

• A. Availability
• B. Access
• C. Utilization
• D. Stability

Answer: (C)

Food security describes more than just having enough calories; it also concerns how people can use the food they have. Utilization is about the body's ability to metabolize and absorb nutrients from the food, which depends on factors like diet quality, nutrition, health status, water and sanitation, safe food handling, and proper cooking. If people are ill, lack clean water, or have poor sanitation, the nutrients in their food may not be effectively used, even when food is available or affordable. This makes utilization a distinct and essential dimension of food security because it links food intake to actual health and nutrition outcomes.

For context, availability means the physical presence of food; access is about whether people can obtain that food; stability refers to food security over time, ensuring consistent access and use.