Fresh street: the development and feasibility of a place-based, subsidy for fresh fruit and vegetables. (9th November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Relton, C; Crowder, M; Blake, M; Strong, M
• Is Part Of: Journal of public health. Volume 44:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 184
• Page End: 191
• Publication Date: 2020-11-09
• Subjects: food and nutrition -- food environment -- places; Public health -- Periodicals; Public health -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Medical policy -- Periodicals; Medical policy -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 362.1
• DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdaa190
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1741-3842

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Many UK communities experience food insecurity, and consume diets high in energy-dense, nutrient poor, processed foods and low in fruit and vegetables (FV). We explored a novel area-based approach to promote FV consumption and healthy eating in one such community. Methods: We developed a weekly subsidy scheme for fresh FV with key local stakeholders in an area of socioeconomic deprivation in Northern England. The scheme (Fresh Street) offered five £1 vouchers to every household, regardless of income or household type. Vouchers were redeemable with local suppliers of fresh FV (not supermarkets). The feasibility of the scheme was assessed in four streets using rapid ethnographic assessment and voucher redemption information. Results: Local councillors and public health teams were supportive of the scheme. Most eligible households joined the scheme ( n = 80/97, 83%), and 89.3% (17 849/19 982) of vouchers issued were redeemed. Householders reported that the scheme made them think about what they were eating, and prompted them to buy and eat more FV. Conclusions: This feasibility study reported high levels of acceptance for a place-based, household-level weekly FV subsidy scheme. Further research is required to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach to creating healthy diets, eating behaviours and food systems.