Characterising the fruit and vegetable environment of peri-urban Hyderabad, India

Abstract

Low fruit and vegetable consumption is a key contributor to all forms of malnutrition. This qualitative study examined the perceptions of people living in peri-urban villages of Hyderabad, India, to characterise the sources of fruit and vegetables, the fruit and vegetable environment, and to inform future interventions to increase fruit and vegetable consumption. Health and food quality were primarily seen through a food safety lens and negative aspects were frequently attributed to increased pesticide use. Availability, price and affordability of fresh fruit and vegetables were important drivers of their acquisition and consumption. Promoting communal gardens may increase the availability of affordable fruit and vegetables, as would promoting cold storage facilities. Financial incentives would likely be effective in increasing consumption of fruit and vegetables.