Over half of Romanians (56%) say they skipped meals, ate smaller portions or switched to cheaper food in the past year just to keep their finances afloat, according to a stark new survey from The Access Alliance, an initiative backed by Glovo.

The poll, released this week, paints a picture of quiet desperation: six in ten respondents feared they would not have enough money for food at some point in the last 12 months. Households are rationing basics in a way many neighbours never suspect.

Nearly 40% of those polled say they know no one in their close circle struggling to afford enough food, while only 19% think they could spot it easily. Another 50% avoided social gatherings because they couldn’t contribute food, turning everyday meetups into luxuries.

Food insecurity quietly worsening

Seven in ten Romanians see food insecurity as having worsened over the past 3–5 years, driven by relentless price hikes. Almost 80% now scour promotions daily because their budgets won’t stretch to regular shopping. For 40%, it means parents or family members going without so others can eat.

How Romanians respond, and suffer in silence

Direct aid dominates: 57% have donated food or covered groceries for someone in need. If facing it themselves, 43% would turn first to family; 17% say they would tell no one. Meanwhile, 60% have dodged social events over food costs, isolating themselves further.