Work

Evaluating the availability, accessibility, and affordability of fresh food in informal food environments in five Mexican cities

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: This study sheds light on the role of informal street markets in local Mexican food environments.Less is known about the availability, accessibility, and affordability of fresh food offered in these markets and their contribution to urban health in cities of the Global South in which high degrees of informality exist.We examined the impacts of informal markets on food environments in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Queretaro, and San Luis Potosí.We conclude that informal markets significantly improve availability, access, and affordability of fresh food, especially in the central region of Mexico and for vulnerable low-income groups on the urban periphery.However, they play a very limited role in car-centric cities of the industrial north such as Monterrey.This study aims to support planning decisions that target the improvement of access to a healthy diet in informal settings.

Source: Journal of Urban Affairs

DOI: 10.1080/07352166.2023.2276778

Authors: Aleksandra Krstikj, Edgar Alan Egurrola Hernández, Emanuele Giorgi, Ruben Garnica Monroy

Institution: Tecnológico de Monterrey

Language: English

Topic: Food Security and Health in Diverse Populations

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: No poverty, Sustainable cities and communities, Zero hunger, Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey