<![CDATA[This study aims to examine the relationship between food security generated from the local agricultural sector and the prevalence of stunting among children in rural areas. Despite numerous initiatives to reduce stunting, the relationship between localized food security factors and stunting prevention remains understudied, particularly in regions with strong agricultural potential such as Sinjai Regency. This research is a quantitative descriptive study involving 94 respondents who are members of farmer groups spread across 8 sub-districts in Sinjai Regency. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test. Findings from this study indicate that each variable food availability, food access, and food utilization has a significant relationship with the level of food security. The p- values for food availability (p = 0.028), food access (p = 0.005), and food utilization (p = 0.011) are all below 0.05, indicating statistical significance (Ho rejected). These results suggest that strengthening local food systems can play a critical role in improving food security and nutritional outcomes, thereby contributing to stunting prevention. Theoretically, this study contributes to the understanding of how agricultural-based food security mechanisms relate to public health issues such as stunting. Practically, the findings can inform local governments and policymakers to design more targeted interventions in rural areas by enhancing access to and utilization of locally sourced food.]]>
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