| Description |
BACKGROUND: There are areas in our communities, both rural and urban, which do not have access to affordable, healthy food. These areas are called food deserts. There is not a specific definition of what a food desert is, but the general concept is the same throughout the research that is being conducted. Guthman (2008) states that the term food deserts is used to describe urban environments where few, if any, venues provide an array of healthful fruits, vegetables, meats, and grain products, but instead sell snack foods and highly processed ready-to-eat meals. Having access to affordable healthy food can have implications on your health. METHODS: In order to address this issue, the Community Food Co-op of Utah decided to establish Mobile Markets to break down some of the perceived barriers to their traditional co-op model and also bring fresh, affordable produce and meat into low income neighborhoods classified as food deserts. This will be accomplished through the creation of about four to five coalition partners located geographically near each other, to come together, bring awareness and sponsor a Mobile Market site. RESULTS: Due to some complications experienced by the Community Food Co-op of Utah, that prevented that project's completion by the initial deadline, the process is on-going to establish these sites. The goal is to have all five markets set up by the end of summer 2010. To date one, out of the potential 5, Mobile Market site nearly established,. |
