Western Australian Food Security Project
Author Information
Author(s): Alexandra McManus, Graham Brown, Bruce Maycock
Primary Institution: Curtin University of Technology
Hypothesis
What are the issues relating to food security in a lower income area of Perth?
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for further investigation into the impact of access to quality, healthy foods at reasonable costs in lower socio-economic areas.
Supporting Evidence
- 99 food outlets participated in the survey, representing a 75% response rate.
- More than half of the outlets pre-prepared the majority of their food.
- Sandwiches and rolls were the most popular items sold.
- High fat pastries and carbonated drinks were popular choices among clients.
- Less than one third of outlets offered a choice of bread type other than white or wholemeal.
Takeaway
This study looked at food availability in a poorer area and found that many shops sell mostly pre-prepared foods, which may not be the healthiest options.
Methodology
A food audit survey was conducted among food outlet owners/operators in a lower socio-economic area, with a response rate of 75%.
Limitations
The study only included food outlets in one lower socio-economic area and did not assess the dietary habits of local residents.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on food outlets in a lower socio-economic area of the City of Mandurah.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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