The experiences of a large health service food retailer in implementing a healthy food policy
Year: 2017
Type: article
Abstract: Background A large Australian metropolitan health service introduced a healthy food retail policy, whereby the proportion of food and drinks for sale was determined by macronutrients and energy content. This study aims to gather detailed insight into the experience of those implementing a healthy food retail policy in order to inform and aid the translation of such policies into other organisations. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven individuals involved in the introduction of the healthy food retail policy including those in senior management, food preparation, and administration. Interviews explored informants’ experiences of, involvement in, factors affecting, and perceived outcomes of policy implementation. Results were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Results Participants identified that the provision of resources and support by the health service to the retail staff were essential to successful policy implementation. Effective and frequent communication contributed to trusting relationships between retail and health service staff. Retail staff participants reported they had concerns prior to policy implementation, such as reduced sales. In all cases, these concerns had lessened or disappeared after implementation. One factor contributing to this change was the use of low-risk trials for introducing new healthier foods or removing unhealthy products. Conclusions This in-depth exploration of the introduction of a healthy food policy across a major health service indicates that implementing a healthy food retail policy within health-promoting settings benefits from resource dedication, investment in relationship-building with key stakeholders, and a long-term approach with gradual introduction of changes. Key messages: This work provides key recommendations for a health service seeking to improve the healthiness of food and drink offerings within its food retail outlets. Exploring the perspectives of retailers has the potential to aid translation and uptake of healthy food retail policy implementation.
Authors: MR Blake, K Backholer, J Hettiarachchi, C Palermo, A Peeters, T Boelsen-Robinson
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2766699801