Increasing access to healthful foods: a qualitative study with residents of low-income communities

摘要: Inadequate access to healthful foods has been identified as a significant barrier dietary behaviors among individuals who live in low-income communities. The purpose of this study was gather community members’ opinions about their food purchasing choices and perceptions the most effective ways increase Spanish English focus groups were conducted low-income, ethnically-diverse Participants asked knowledge, factors influencing decisions, regarding solutions foods. A total 148 people participated 13 groups. majority participants female ethnically diverse (63% Hispanic, 17% African American, 16% Caucasian, 4% “other”). More than 75% reported making less $1999 USD per month. high levels knowledge preference for important barriers shopping included price food, inadequate geographical poor quality available lack overall proximate retail stores. Suggested placement new chain supermarkets Strategies implemented convenience stores not seen effective. Farmers’ markets, with specific stipulations, gardens regarded beneficial supplementary solutions. results from provide input needs assessment perspective community, identify gaps access, offer potential direction future.