Maternal financial literacy as a determinant of household food security: Evidence from a cross-sectional study in Padang Lawas Regency, Indonesia

Sri MB Bangun, Nur I. Lipoeto, Masrul Masrul, Novizar Nazir, Rosfita Rasyid, Hardisman Hardisman, Firdawati Firdawati, Yonariza Yonariza

Abstract

Household food security remains a major challenge in Indonesia and is closely linked to maternal and child health. Low maternal financial literacy can exacerbate food insecurity due to poor budget management. This study examined the effect of maternal financial literacy on household food security in Padang Lawas Regency, Indonesia. A total of 384 mothers with children aged 6 59 months participated in this cross-sectional study conducted between October 2024 and February 2025 using a multistage cluster sampling method. Data were analyzed with chi-square tests and binary logistic regression. Results showed that mothers with good financial literacy were 26 times more likely to achieve household food security (OR = 26.044; 95% CI: 7.044–96.297; p < 0.001). Maternal age and household size were also significant factors. These findings highlight the need to integrate financial literacy education into public health programs to strengthen food security, improve nutrition, and support reproductive health.

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