Abstract
Street food stands (SFS) are an understudied element of the food environment. Previous SFS studies have not used a rigorous approach to document the availability, density, and distribution of SFS across neighborhood income levels and points of access in Mexico City. A random sample (n = 761) of street segments representing 20 low-, middle-, and high-income neighborhoods were assessed using geographic information system (GIS) and ground-truthing methods. All three income levels contained SFS. However, SFS availability and density were higher in middle-income neighborhoods. The distribution of SFS showed that SFS were most often found near homes, transportation centers, and worksites. SFS availability near schools may have been limited by local school policies. Additional studies are needed to further document relationships between SFS availability, density, and distribution, and current structures and processes.
Highlights
The food environment can significantly impact individuals’ eating behaviors
Studies have noted a higher concentration of fast-food restaurants and convenience stores near schools, where children can be enticed by food and beverage products [13,14,15,16]
Data in this observational study were collected through ethnographic fieldwork and direct observations of Mexico City street segments between May and August 2018
Summary
The food environment can significantly impact individuals’ eating behaviors. It is an important factor to consider when addressing diet-related problems, such as overweight, obesity, and diabetes. Food environments with a high prevalence of fast-food restaurants and convenience stores are associated with adverse health outcomes, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some types of cancer [4,5,6,7]. Food environments with ample supermarkets and grocery stores are associated with reduced risks for these same negative health outcomes [4,7]. Studies of food environments can help us understand the variations in numbers, locations, and types of food venues across communities. Supermarkets and grocery stores are less likely to be found in low-income and ethnic communities [8,9,10], with corner stores, liquor stores, and fast-food restaurants as the more likely options [9,11,12]. Studies have noted a higher concentration of fast-food restaurants and convenience stores near schools, where children can be enticed by food and beverage products [13,14,15,16]
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