Mapping Food Deserts in London, Ontario
Author Information
Author(s): Kristian Larsen, Jason Gilliland
Primary Institution: The University of Western Ontario
Hypothesis
Do systematic spatial inequalities in access to supermarkets exist in London, Ontario?
Conclusion
Urban food deserts exist in London, Ontario, with inner-city neighborhoods of low socioeconomic status having the poorest access to supermarkets.
Supporting Evidence
- Residents of inner-city neighborhoods of low socioeconomic status have the poorest access to supermarkets.
- Spatial inequalities in access to supermarkets have increased over time.
- Policies aimed at improving public health must recognize spatial and socioeconomic inequities.
Takeaway
Some neighborhoods in London, Ontario, don't have easy access to grocery stores, making it hard for people to buy healthy food.
Methodology
The study used GIS to map supermarket locations and assess access using network analysis techniques.
Limitations
The study is empirical and lacks qualitative data from residents living in food deserts.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on neighborhoods in London, Ontario, with varying socioeconomic statuses.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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