Ryazantsev S.V., Vartanova M.L. Demographic determinants of nutrition adaptation of international migrants in host countries: global trends and the Russian context. Bulletin of the Moscow University. Series 6. Economics. 2026. Vol. 61. No. 2. Pp. 218-237.

Текст статьи на сайте журнала URL: https://msuecon.elpub.ru/jour/article/view/1692/718 (дата обращения 22.06.2026)

Abstract

This study is devoted to the analysis of demographic determinants of nutrition adaptation of international migrants in host countries in the context of global and regional socio-economic, demographic and food processes. It has been found that migrants with families are more likely to adapt their diets to the nutritional standards of the host country, while single students retain traditional ethnic eating habits to a greater extent. The differences identified are due to the level of social vulnerability of migrants, current legal restrictions, limited access to the labor market, and insufficient effective integration programs into the host society. Globalization, demographic changes, urbanization and political crises are exacerbating the imbalance in access to high-quality and safe food, which is especially noticeable among the most vulnerable groups of migrants. The authors analyze the impact of demographic, social, economic, and institutional factors on the changing eating habits of international migrants and, based on the dynamics of food consumption, as well as indicators of food production, distribution, and trade, develop demographic scenarios for international and interregional cooperation, food system reforms, and support for migrant communities with a focus on the Russian context. Ensuring equal, sustainable and culturally adapted access to food is considered as a key element of food security, social justice and quality of life for migrants, contributing to economic growth and reducing social exclusion. The practical potential of the results obtained is related to the development of targeted food programs focused on migration flows, as well as the formation of interstate and interregional strategies aimed at reducing malnutrition, preventing related diseases, and strengthening the physiological and psychological health of migrants in the face of current global and regional challenges.