Milk as Metaphor: Low-Income Lone Mothers' Characterization of their Challenges Acquiring Milk for their Families

Abstract

This study investigated the discourses of low-income lone mothers in Atlantic Canada when they were asked to comment on challenges they faced in providing food in general, and milk in particular, for their families. Data were collected between 1999 and 2006 over the course of two studies through face-to-face interviews and focus groups. We also sought mothers' views on ways to increase access to milk. Transcripts were re-analyzed to assess the symbolic meaning of milk to these women. We found that milk is a metaphor for an elite commodity that is perceived to be vital to health and is a root source of stress.