The research, commissioned by the Trussell Trust, found four out of five people referred to tis foodbanks have skipped meals, sometimes for days at a time.
Chief Executive of the Christian charity, David McAuley said: "This pioneering research confirms to us what those volunteers have been telling us.
"Every day they are meeting people trying to cope with low, insecure incomes and rising prices that mean even the smallest unexpected expense can leave them destitute and hungry, be that an unexpected bill, bereavement or the loss of income caused by benefit delay."
The study of 400 households, conducted by Oxford University researchers, found half of foodbank users reported having incomes which fluctuated from week to week.
Mr McAuley went on to say: "These findings reaffirm how vital the work of foodbanks and generosity of donors is, but are also a clear challenge to the new Government to do more to stop people ending up in crisis in the first place."
Half could not afford toiletries or to heat their home. Many people referred to the Trussell Trust's 420 foodbanks were awaiting benefit payments.
Lead author of the study, Dr Rachel Loopstra: "The stories emerging from foodbanks across the country have surprised and shocked many people but until now, we have not been able to put them in a numerical context.
"Our survey data shows how people using foodbanks are unable to ensure they always have enough food to eat because their incomes are too low and too insecure."
A government spokesman said the state is helping millions of households meet their living costs but added it wants "to go even further to help ordinary families".