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Melo Herrera Y, Vadiveloo M, Blau S, Oaks BM, Quashie NT, Tovar A. Feasibility and acceptability of a personalized, pre-filled online grocery cart to improve benefit redemption and diet quality of grocery purchases among participants of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Appetite 2024; 202:107647. [PMID: 39182850 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Most participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) do not fully redeem their benefits due to barriers like transportation, confusing product eligibility, and unclear labeling. Online food shopping enables choice architecture to promote benefit redemption and maximize diet quality. We conducted a mixed-methods pilot randomized-controlled trial to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a pre-filled online grocery shopping cart to improve WIC benefit redemption and diet quality of grocery purchases. Rhode Island WIC participants (n = 24, mean age 29.4 ± 1.1 years, 75% Hispanic, 54% had never grocery shopped online) completed a baseline questionnaire and a simulated shopping episode (SSE), buying WIC and non-WIC items. After a week, we randomized participants into the intervention (personalized, modifiable carts pre-filled with 100% of the 2022 proposed WIC packages) or control (selected their items individually) groups before the second SSE. Both groups had WIC labels. We assessed feasibility using process data and percent agreement to feasibility questions, and acceptability via percent agreement to acceptability questions and post-intervention qualitative interviews. We conducted exploratory analyses to examine differences within and between groups at each timepoint for percent WIC benefit redemption and diet quality of grocery purchases, evaluated using the Grocery Purchase Quality Index-2016 (GPQI-2016) scores. Quantitative study measures suggest that the intervention was feasible and that the personalized, modifiable pre-filled cart was acceptable. These findings were supported during qualitative interviews, where participants highlighted time-savings, flexibility, and WIC labels as facilitators of WIC online shopping. Exploratory results showed significant increases in mean percent redemption of most WIC food categories and non-significant moderate increases in most GPQI-2016 scores. These measures are vital for the future adaptation of a full-scale efficacy trial in real-life settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yarisbel Melo Herrera
- Department of Nutrition, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA; Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Maya Vadiveloo
- Department of Nutrition, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Sarah Blau
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Brietta M Oaks
- Department of Nutrition, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Nekehia T Quashie
- Department of Public Health, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Alison Tovar
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
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Anderson Steeves E, Gillespie R, DeWitt E, Barr M, Cox B, Hudson T, Haynes-Maslow L, Trude ACB, Gustafson A. Barriers and Facilitators to Online Grocery Shopping Among Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Participants: A Mixed Method Study. Ecol Food Nutr 2024; 63:585-604. [PMID: 39154382 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2024.2392557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
This mixed methods study explored online grocery shopping perceptions by surveying individuals who do and do not receive SNAP benefits (n = 129) and by conducting interviews with SNAP recipients (n = 26) who have grocery shopped online. T-tests assessed survey findings, codebook thematic analysis was used to identify qualitative themes, and results were interpreted collectively. Survey results found no differences in perceptions of online grocery shopping between SNAP and non-SNAP recipients (p-values = 0.2-1.0) and that 97% of SNAP recipients felt comfortable using SNAP online. Five qualitative themes were identified and provided context to the survey results. The study findings can inform policy actions within SNAP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel Gillespie
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Emily DeWitt
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Makenzie Barr
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Brittany Cox
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Travis Hudson
- Department of Nutrition, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Lindsey Haynes-Maslow
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hil, North Carolina, USA
| | - Angela C B Trude
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alison Gustafson
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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McGuirt JT, Anderson Steeves E, Labban JD, Pfammatter AF, Allen K, Kopper R, Sun Y, Gustafson A. Multi-Method Formative Evaluation of a Digital Online Grocery Shopping Assistant Among Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children Participants. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2024; 56:556-568. [PMID: 38775762 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assess the acceptability of a digital grocery shopping assistant among rural women with low income. DESIGN Simulated shopping experience, semistructured interviews, and a choice experiment. SETTING Rural central North Carolina Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children clinic. PARTICIPANTS Thirty adults (aged ≥18 years) recruited from a Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children clinic. PHENOMENON OF INTEREST A simulated grocery shopping experience with the Retail Online Shopping Assistant (ROSA) and mixed-methods feedback on the experience. ANALYSIS Deductive and inductive qualitative content analysis to independently code and identify themes and patterns among interview responses and quantitative analysis of simulated shopping experience and choice experiment. RESULTS Most participants liked ROSA (28/30, 93%) and found it helpful and likely to change their purchase across various food categories and at checkout. Retail Online Shopping Assistant's reminders and suggestions could reduce less healthy shopping habits and diversify food options. Participants desired dynamic suggestions and help with various health conditions. Participants preferred a racially inclusive, approachable, cartoon-like, and clinically dressed character. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This formative study suggests ROSA could be a beneficial tool for facilitating healthy online grocery shopping among rural shoppers. Future research should investigate the impact of ROSA on dietary behaviors further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared T McGuirt
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC.
| | | | - Jeffrey D Labban
- Office of Research, School of Health and Human Sciences, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC
| | - Angela F Pfammatter
- College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences, Department of Public Health, The University of Tennessee Knoxville, Knoxville, TN
| | - Kendall Allen
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC
| | - Regis Kopper
- Department of Computer Science, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC
| | - Yingcheng Sun
- Department of Computer Science, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC
| | - Alison Gustafson
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
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Chereches MC, Popa CO, Finta H. The dynamics of food for special medical purposes (FSMPs) utilization in cancer care: from doctor recommendations to online pharmacy procurement. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1393784. [PMID: 39119613 PMCID: PMC11307204 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1393784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study conducted in Romania examines the increasing role of online pharmacies in providing Food for Special Medical Purposes (FSMP) to cancer patients. Key findings indicate patient satisfaction with ease of access, significant challenges related to costs, and the critical role of healthcare professionals in guiding FSMP selection. INTRODUCTION As cancer treatments advance, the demand for supportive nutritional care becomes increasingly critical, with FSMPs playing a vital role in patient recovery and quality of life. METHODS Employing a cross-sectional study design, we surveyed cancer patients from Romania to assess their experiences purchasing FSMPs through traditional and online pharmacies. We analyzed the factors influencing their choices, the perceived benefits and challenges of online access, and the role of healthcare professional guidance in their decision-making process. RESULTS The study reveals that while patients appreciate the ease of access and the broad spectrum of available FSMPs online, they grapple with the financial burden and the need for reliable information to make informed decisions. Through a cross-sectional analysis, we found that the expertise and recommendations of healthcare professionals remain integral to the FSMP selection process, suggesting that digital solutions should enhance, not replace, traditional healthcare interactions. Moreover, our findings highlight a crucial gap in the taste and variety of FSMPs, suggesting that patient adherence could be improved through product innovation. The study found a significant association between the type of medical unit where patients followed their treatment (state-owned clinic) and whether they received recommendations from a specialist oncologist for using FSMPs. Nutritionists' recommendations were also significantly associated with a higher likelihood of purchasing FSMPs online. DISCUSSIONS The study reveals that despite the benefits of digital access, a crucial need exists for regulatory measures and professional oversight to ensure the safe and informed use of FSMPs. The trust placed in healthcare professionals' recommendations continues to be instrumental in navigating the digital marketplace. CONCLUSION This work paves the way for future strategies to integrate online solutions with established healthcare practices to optimize cancer care in the digital age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Călin Chereches
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy Science and Technology, Târgu Mures, Romania
| | - Cristian Olimpiu Popa
- The Institute of International Relations and Area Studies, Faculty of European Studies, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Hajnal Finta
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy Science and Technology, Târgu Mures, Romania
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Spence EH, Niles MT, Bertmann F, Belarmino EH. Experiences participating in federal nutrition assistance programs during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic: an investigation in Vermont. Nutr J 2024; 23:74. [PMID: 39004722 PMCID: PMC11247766 DOI: 10.1186/s12937-024-00963-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Federal nutrition assistance programs serve as safety nets for many American households, and participation has been linked to increased food security and, in some instances, improved diet quality and mental health outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic brought new and increased economic, social, and psychological challenges, necessitating inquiry into how nutrition assistance programs are functioning and associated with public health outcomes. METHODS Using data from a representative statewide survey administered in Vermont (n = 600) between July and September 2020, we examined participant experiences with major federal nutrition assistance programs: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and school meal programs. We explored quantitative and qualitative responses regarding perceptions of program utility, and used nearest neighbors matching analyses in combination with bivariate statistical tests to assess associations between program participation and food insecurity, perceived stress, and fruit and vegetable intake as indicators of dietary quality. RESULTS One in four respondents (27.3%) used at least one federal nutrition assistance program. As compared to non-participants, we found higher rates of food insecurity among program participants (57.5% vs. 18.1%; p < 0.001), an association that persisted even when we compared similar households using matching techniques (p ≤ 0.001). From matched analyses, we found that, compared to low-income non-participants, low-income program participants were less likely to meet fruit intake recommendations (p = 0.048) and that low-income SNAP and WIC participants were less likely to meet vegetable intake recommendations (p = 0.035). We also found lower rates of perceived stress among low-income school meal participant households compared to low-income non-participants (p = 0.039). Despite these mixed outcomes, participants broadly valued federal nutrition assistance programs, characterizing them as helpful or easy to use. CONCLUSIONS We found that federal nutrition assistance programs as a group were not sufficient to address food insecurity and stress or increase fruit and vegetable intake in the state of Vermont during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, participants perceived benefits from participation in these programs. Optimizing the utility of nutrition assistance programs depends on critical examination of their functioning under conditions of great stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma H Spence
- Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Meredith T Niles
- Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, 210 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Farryl Bertmann
- Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Emily H Belarmino
- Food Systems Program, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Vermont, 109 Carrigan Drive, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, 210 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
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Trude ACB, Bunzl NB, Rehman ZN, Elbel B, Lau S, Talal LA, Weitzman BC. "I Don't Want an App to Do the Work for Me": A Qualitative Study on the Perception of Online Grocery Shopping From Small Food Retailers. J Acad Nutr Diet 2024; 124:804-822. [PMID: 38103594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small food retailers often stock energy-dense convenience foods, and they are ubiquitous in low-income urban settings. With the rise in e-commerce, little is known about the acceptability of online grocery shopping from small food retailers. OBJECTIVE To explore perceptions of the role of small food retailers (bodegas) in food access and the acceptability of online grocery shopping from bodegas among customers and owners in a diverse New York City urban neighborhood with low incomes. DESIGN In-depth interviews were conducted with bodega owners and adult customers between May and July 2022. PARTICIPANTS/SETTING Bodega owners who either had (n = 4) or had not (n = 2) implemented a locally designed online grocery system. Customers (n = 25) were recruited through purposive sampling and were eligible if they purchased at bodegas (>once per month), had low income (household income ≤130% of the federal poverty level or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program [SNAP] participants), and owned smartphones. ANALYSES PERFORMED All interviews were transcribed and analyzed in MAXQDA (Verbi Software, Berlin, Germany), using grounded theory. RESULTS To owners and customers, bodegas were seen as good neighbors providing culturally appropriate foods and an informal financial safety net. Their perceptions concerning food cost and availability of healthy foods in bodegas diverged. Although most perceived online grocery from bodegas as a positive community resource, they also believed it was not suited to their own community because of the bodega's proximity to customers' homes and the low digital literacy of some community members. Customers reported social norms of pride in not using online grocery shopping. Owners and customers believed the service would more likely be used if government benefits such as SNAP allowed payment for online orders. Both suggested improved outreach to increase program awareness and uptake. CONCLUSIONS Online grocery shopping from small food retailers may be acceptable in urban communities with low income and was perceived as a community resource. However, important barriers need to be addressed, such as social norms related to pride in not using online grocery services, digital literacy, program awareness, and allowing SNAP payment for online orders from bodegas.
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Jia SS, Raeside R, Sainsbury E, Wardak S, Phongsavan P, Redfern J, Allman-Farinelli M, Fernandez MA, Partridge SR, Gibson AA. Use of online food retail platforms throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and associated diet-related chronic disease risk factors: A systematic review of emerging evidence. Obes Rev 2024; 25:e13720. [PMID: 38346847 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Food accessibility was considerably impacted by restrictions during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, leading to growth in the online food retail sector, which offered contact-free delivery. This systematic review aimed to assess the change in use of online food retail platforms during COVID-19. The secondary aim was to identify diet-related chronic disease risk factors including dietary intake, eating behaviors, and/or weight status associated with the use of online food retail platforms during the pandemic. The review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD42022320498) and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Nine electronic databases were searched between January 2020 and October 2023. Studies that reported the frequency or change in use of online groceries, meal delivery applications, and/or meal-kit delivery services before and during the pandemic were included. A total of 53 studies were identified, including 46 cross-sectional studies, 4 qualitative studies, 2 longitudinal cohort studies, and 1 mixed-methods study. Overall, 96% (43/45) of outcomes showed an increase in the use of online groceries during COVID-19, while 55% (22/40) of outcomes showed a decrease in meal delivery applications. Eight of nine outcomes associated the use of online food retail with weight gain and emotional eating. Further research is needed to investigate the links between online food retail and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Si Jia
- Engagement and Co-Design Research Hub, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rebecca Raeside
- Engagement and Co-Design Research Hub, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emma Sainsbury
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy and Economics, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sara Wardak
- Engagement and Co-Design Research Hub, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Philayrath Phongsavan
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Julie Redfern
- Engagement and Co-Design Research Hub, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Margaret Allman-Farinelli
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Nutrition and Dietetics Group, Sydney School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Melissa A Fernandez
- School of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Stephanie R Partridge
- Engagement and Co-Design Research Hub, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alice A Gibson
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy and Economics, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Bennett R, Keeble M, Zorbas C, Sacks G, Driessen C, Grigsby-Duffy L, Adams J, Burgoine T, Backholer K. The potential influence of the digital food retail environment on health: A systematic scoping review of the literature. Obes Rev 2024; 25:e13671. [PMID: 38104965 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The digital food retail environment (defined in this study as a digital platform, app or website where food can be purchased by individuals for personal consumption) is an emerging component of the wider food system. We aimed to systematically search and review the literature to understand the potential influence of the digital food retail environment on population diets and health. METHODS Four databases (across health, business, and marketing) and grey literature were searched using terms relating to "food and beverages," "digital," and "purchasing." Identified studies were included if they examined any aspect of the digital food retail environment where outcomes were examined with a health-related focus and were published before September 2023. All study designs were included (quantitative, qualitative, observational, and experimental). Reviews and conference abstracts were excluded. RESULTS We identified 21,382 studies, of which 57 articles were eligible for inclusion. Of the 57 included studies, 30 studies examined online grocery retail, 22 examined online food delivery platforms, and five examined meal kit subscription services. Of the 30 studies examining online grocery retail, six studies reported that customers believed they purchased fewer unhealthy food and beverages when shopping online, compared with shopping in-store. Nevertheless, customers also reported that their ability to choose healthy foods and beverages was reduced when shopping online due to difficulty in product comparison. Studies that examined online food delivery platforms primarily found that they promoted unhealthy foods and beverages more often than healthy options, through extensive use of marketing practices such as price discounts and images, and that unhealthy food offerings on these platforms dominate. Meal kit subscription services offered mostly healthy meals, with studies suggesting that these types of services may help individuals alleviate some of their "mental load" and stress related to cooking meals for their families. CONCLUSIONS The literature describing the digital food retail environment was found to be diverse, with different aspects having potential to impact health in different ways. Some evidence suggests that online grocery retail and meal kit subscription services may have positive population dietary impacts, whereas online food delivery platforms appear likely to promote unhealthy food purchasing. However, the current evidence base is fragmented, with many knowledge gaps. Further research is required to understand the influence of the digital food retail environment on population diets and how these environments can be designed to support healthy food choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Bennett
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Keeble
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285 Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Christina Zorbas
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gary Sacks
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christine Driessen
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lily Grigsby-Duffy
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jean Adams
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285 Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Thomas Burgoine
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285 Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kathryn Backholer
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Crespo-Bellido M, Steeves EA, Hill JL, Kersten S, Nitto AM. Vendors' Perceptions and Experiences with WIC Online Shopping Implementation. Curr Dev Nutr 2024; 8:102084. [PMID: 38375071 PMCID: PMC10875264 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Online shopping (OS) holds promise for improving the shopping experience for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). However, little is known about vendors' perspectives on implementing OS in the context of WIC. Objectives The present study aimed to understand vendors' experiences, needs, and barriers to WIC OS implementation. Methods We recruited vendors at various stages of WIC OS planning and implementation (n = 16). Semistructured interviews were conducted, transcribed, and coded using subconstructs of the i-PARIHS framework domains (e.g., Characteristics of the Innovation, recipient, context, and facilitation) to assess determinants related to adoption and implementation of WIC OS among vendors. Results Interviewees represented various organizations, including local (n = 5), regional (n = 4), and national (n = 5) entities, along with enablement platforms (n = 2). The interviews yielded themes related to experiences planning and implementing a WIC OS system (n = 7) and perceived needs and barriers (n = 3). Vendors drew on prior experiences with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) OS to inform WIC OS projects, stressing the importance of building relationships and collaborating, particularly in technical partnerships, during WIC OS implementation. They also highlighted the value of leveraging existing OS systems to implement WIC OS projects, discussed WIC OS perceived benefits, emphasized the role of educating staff and participants on its usage, and valued WIC OS implementation guidance provided by WIC agencies. Needs and barriers for vendors contemplating WIC OS implementation included the need for evidence of successful implementation of WIC OS projects, understanding current regulatory implications, and appraising existing priorities and financial considerations for adopting and implementing WIC OS. Conclusions WIC OS innovations are integral to modernizing the federal food assistance program. The present study highlights the role of vendor engagement, collaboration, guidance from WIC agencies, and knowledge sharing in ensuring WIC OS success. These insights can inform how WIC State agencies engage vendors to implement WIC OS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennie L Hill
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE, United States
- Division of Health System Innovation and Research, Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Sarah Kersten
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE, United States
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Giacomini G, Scacchi A, Ragusa P, Prinzivalli A, Elhadidy HSMA, Gianino MM. Which variables and determinants influence online food delivery consumption among workers and students? Results from the DELIvery Choice In OUr Society (DELICIOUS) cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1326628. [PMID: 38259773 PMCID: PMC10801387 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1326628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Online food delivery (OFD) applications provide easy access to food, eliminating the need for cooking and meal planning. However, they predominantly promote processed and calorie-dense foods, potentially impacting diet and health. This study aimed to describe the use of OFD services in a sample of Italian workers and students, to explore potential determinants of OFD usage and to assess possible differences in use between these two categories. Methods Data were collected through an online survey (convenience sampling) distributed on social media platforms between July 12, 2022, and February 1, 2023. The sample included individuals aged 18 and above, currently residing in Italy. The sample was stratified according to worker/student status. Descriptive analyses were performed on key variables. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the effects of variables on OFD usage, treated as a dichotomous variable (usage or non-usage). Results This study analyzed 3,502 questionnaires (2,594 from workers and 908 from students) after excluding 323 non-student and non-worker responses. Positive associations with OFD use included higher income, remote working, smoking, elevated BMI, depression risk, and impulsive buying among workers, while being female, frequent screen-watching during meals, daily smoking, higher BMI, and impulsive buying were associated with OFD use among students. Factors negatively associated with OFD use included older age (workers and students), living in suburbs (workers and students) or in an outline town (workers), being single (workers and students), adhering to the Mediterranean diet (students), having low health literacy (students), and job dissatisfaction (workers). Discussion OFD consumption was associated with some risky behaviors and conditions, such as high BMI or smoking, suggesting that it might be influenced by individual tendencies. Healthier habits, such as physical activity, did not significantly impact OFD usage, especially among workers. Whereas, among students, factors such as low health literacy and better eating habits were associated with less use of OFD, so that they could be more prone to use OFD in a measured way. Further research is needed to better understand potential associations between OFD and risky habits, as well as its role in promoting access to healthy food in underserved areas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paolo Ragusa
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Prinzivalli
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Chiong R, Salas J, Kohn J, St John E, Figueroa R. A Formative Evaluation of an Online Meal Kit and Grocery Platform for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Recipients. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2024; 56:43-53. [PMID: 37999697 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2023.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the barriers and facilitators to online food purchasing through a meal kit and grocery shopping website titled NY SNAP Express among Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries. METHODS A purposive sample of SNAP-eligible adults residing in New York State participated in interviews guided by the Capabilities, Opportunities, Motivations, and Behaviors Model. RESULTS Barriers to online food purchasing among participants (n = 32) include physiological and health conditions, the weight of food, technology, language, the price of foods, transportation challenges, the stigma associated with SNAP, and concerns regarding the quantity and quality of meal kits. Facilitators include health and nutrition improvements, knowledge and skills, saving money, culturally relevant meals, increased efficiency in food purchases and preparation, and customization. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Online platforms such as NY SNAP Express have the potential to increase nutritious food access and resources among SNAP recipients; however, improvements are necessary to meet the needs of its audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reah Chiong
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.
| | - Julio Salas
- Department of Sociology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Julia Kohn
- College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | - Emily St John
- College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | - Roger Figueroa
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
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12
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Gumasing MJJ, Ong AKS, Sy MAPC, Prasetyo YT, Persada SF. A machine learning ensemble approach to predicting factors affecting the intention and usage behavior towards online groceries applications in the Philippines. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20644. [PMID: 37818002 PMCID: PMC10560843 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of e-commerce platforms, especially online grocery shopping, is heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Filipino consumers started to adapt online due to the strict quarantine implementations in the country. This study intended to predict and evaluate factors influencing the intention and usage behavior towards online groceries incorporating the integrated Protection Motivation Theory and an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology applying machine learning ensemble. A total of 373 Filipino consumers of online groceries responded to the survey and evaluated factors under the integrated framework. Artificial Neural Network that is 96.63 % accurate with aligned with the result of the Random Forest Classifier (96 % accuracy with 0.00 standard deviation) having Perceived Benefits as the most significant factor followed by Perceived Vulnerability, Behavioral Intention, Performance Expectancy, and Perceived. These factors will lead to very high usage of online grocery applications. It was established that machine learning algorithms can be used in predicting consumer behavior. These findings may be applied and extended to serve as a framework for government agencies and grocers to market convenient and safe grocery shopping globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma Janice J. Gumasing
- School of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, Mapúa University, Philippines. 658 Muralla St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002, Philippines
| | - Ardvin Kester S. Ong
- School of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, Mapúa University, Philippines. 658 Muralla St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002, Philippines
- E.T. Yuchengo School of Business, Mapúa University. 1191 Pablo Ocampo Sr. Ext., Makati, Metro Manila 1205, Philippines
| | - Madeline Anne Patrice C. Sy
- School of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, Mapúa University, Philippines. 658 Muralla St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002, Philippines
| | - Yogi Tri Prasetyo
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Yuan Ze University, 135 Yuan-Tung Rd., Chung-Li, 32003, Taiwan
| | - Satria Fadil Persada
- Entrepreneurship Department, BINUS Business School Undergraduate Program, Bina Nusantara University, Jakarta 11480, Indonesia
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13
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Calloway EE, Steeves EA, Nitto AM, Hill JL. A Mixed-Methods Study of Perceived Implementation Challenges for WIC Online Ordering and Transactions. J Acad Nutr Diet 2023; 123:1449-1460. [PMID: 37149033 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Federal food assistance programs are working towards online grocery shopping. Online ordering in Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is emerging following successful implementation in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). OBJECTIVE To identify anticipated challenges, potential solutions, and expected costs of WIC online ordering. DESIGN Cross-sectional, mixed-methods, web-based, survey research. SUBJECTS AND SETTING Data were collected from December 2020 to January 2021. Purposeful and snowball sampling included WIC stakeholders involved in developing processes and systems required for WIC online ordering. Respondents represented diverse geographic areas, levels of intraorganizational authority, and WIC benefit card types. STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED The research team used a rapid analysis and lean coding approach to identify emergent themes from open-ended survey responses. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the distribution of responses across themes and stakeholder types. RESULTS Respondents (n = 145) described 812 anticipated challenges within 20 themes grouped into five topic areas: rules and regulations; shopping experience; security, confidentiality, fraud, and WIC State agency processes; training, assistance, and education; and equitable access and buy-in. Addressing anticipated regulatory issues were among the few concrete potential solutions described. The two most frequent costs reported were increased staff time and start-up and ongoing technology costs. CONCLUSIONS This study identified several, critical anticipated challenges and considerations that will help prepare WIC state agencies for opportunities to expand online ordering to WIC participants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Anderson Steeves
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, Nebraska; Department of Nutrition, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
| | | | - Jennie L Hill
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, Nebraska; Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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14
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Gupta S, Mayers E, Schwierking S, Westrick M, Schier H, Sharn AR, Pannell C, Gunther C. Online Grocery Shopping and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Electronic Benefit Transfer Card (EBT): Perceptions of Head Start Caregivers. Ecol Food Nutr 2023; 62:75-87. [PMID: 36880800 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2023.2187383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to explore perceptions of online grocery shopping and the online United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Electronic Benefit Transfer card (EBT) program among Head Start caregivers. Three focus groups were conducted between December 2019 and January 2020. Most participants hadn't tried online grocery shopping. Concerns included others choosing perishables, receiving wrong items, and inappropriate substitutes. Perceived benefits included saving time, preventing impulse buys, and eating healthier. Results have broad applicability in the current COVID-19 pandemic where online grocery shopping and the online SNAP EBT program have rapidly expanded across the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Gupta
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mayers
- College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, Family and Consumer Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Sierra Schwierking
- College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Miranda Westrick
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Heather Schier
- College of Education and Human Ecology, Department of Human Sciences, Human Nutrition Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Amy R Sharn
- College of Education and Human Ecology, Department of Human Sciences, Human Nutrition Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Cara Pannell
- College of Education and Human Ecology, Department of Human Sciences, Human Nutrition Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Carolyn Gunther
- College of Nursing, Martha S. Pitzer Center for Women, Children, and Youth, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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15
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Hill JL, Calloway EE, Nitto AM, Anderson-Steeves E. Application of a Delphi Technique to Identify the Challenges for Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance of WIC Online Ordering Across Various Systems and Stakeholders. JOURNAL OF HUNGER & ENVIRONMENTAL NUTRITION 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/19320248.2023.2174827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennie L. Hill
- Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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16
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Joshi P, Van Remortel BJ, Cullen DL. Perspectives From Urban WIC-Eligible Caregivers to Improve Produce Access. Pediatrics 2023; 151:190434. [PMID: 36601707 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-058536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Farmer's Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables (FV) to eligible participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). However, redemption of FMNP benefits remains low. This qualitative study explores facilitators and barriers to produce access and FMNP redemption for caregivers of WIC-eligible children in Philadelphia during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted semistructured phone interviews with caregivers between August and December 2020 to understand experiences with produce access and programming preferences to increase benefit redemption and produce consumption. We used content analysis with constant comparison with code interviews inductively and identified emerging themes through an iterative process. RESULTS Participants (n = 30) wanted their children to eat more produce but described barriers to produce access, including limited availability, higher cost, and limited time. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and WIC benefits improved the ability to purchase produce, but difficulties with electronic benefit transfer and pandemic-related office closures limited use of WIC benefits. Similarly, lack of convenient market locations and hours prohibited use of FMNP benefits. Caregivers described that an ideal food program would be delivery based, low cost, offer a variety of FV, and provide recipes and educational activities. CONCLUSIONS WIC-eligible caregivers want their children to eat more produce; however, they face multiple barriers in redeeming their benefits to access fresh produce. Delivery-based, low-cost produce programs may lead to increased produce access as well as benefit use. Future study is needed on feasibility and acceptability of produce delivery options among WIC-eligible families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Joshi
- Divisions of Emergency Medicine.,Contributed equally as co-first authors
| | - Brittany J Van Remortel
- Oncology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Contributed equally as co-first authors
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17
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Zhang Q, Zhang J, Park K, Tang C. Evaluation of WIC Online Ordering during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence from an Oklahoma Grocery Store Chain. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15030478. [PMID: 36771185 PMCID: PMC9920272 DOI: 10.3390/nu15030478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is worsening the disparities in food access in the United States. As consumers have been increasingly using grocery online ordering services to limit their exposure to the COVID-19 virus, participants of federal nutrition assistance programs lack the online benefit redemption option. With the support of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), retailers are pilot-testing online food benefit ordering in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). By combining the Oklahoma WIC administrative data, the online ordering data from a grocery store chain in Oklahoma, and the COVID-19 data in Oklahoma, this study examines how WIC participants responded to the online food benefit ordering option and how their adoption of online ordering was associated with the COVID-19 incidence. Results show that from July to December 2020, 15,171 WIC households redeemed WIC benefits at an Oklahoma chain store, but only 819 of them adopted online ordering. They together completed 102,227 online orders, which accounted for 2.7% of the store visits and 2.6% of the monetary value of WIC redemptions at these stores. There was no significant relationship between WIC online ordering adoption and COVID-19 incidence in Oklahoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- School of Community and Environmental Health, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +01-757-6836870
| | - Junzhou Zhang
- Department of Marketing, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA
| | - Kayoung Park
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA
| | - Chuanyi Tang
- Department of Marketing, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA
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18
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Keeton VF, Yu SM, Al-Lami N, Ramilo K, Chavez L, Angila E. Barriers and Facilitators to Implementation of a Child Care Center-Based Produce Delivery Program. Prog Community Health Partnersh 2023; 17:645-652. [PMID: 38286779 PMCID: PMC10832254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regular consumption of produce is a challenge for families with young children in low food access areas. OBJECTIVE A community partnership formed to evaluate feasibility of and interest in a child care center-based program for produce delivery from an online grocery vendor. METHODS Surveys were collected from caregivers across three child care centers, including produce program participants. Descriptive statistics summarize household characteristics and participants' experience with the program. RESULTS Challenges related to online payment and difficulty planning delivery times led to implementation of a modified intervention. Survey results revealed factors related to food access and storage that may impact interest and feasibility of online grocery in some communities. CONCLUSIONS Online grocery vendors may increase accessibility to fresh produce for families, but barriers to their use still exist. Trusted community partners such as child care centers may offer some of the resources needed for success.
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19
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Duffy EW, Lo A, Hall MG, Taillie LS, Ng SW. Prevalence and demographic correlates of online grocery shopping: results from a nationally representative survey during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public Health Nutr 2022; 25:3079-3085. [PMID: 35983641 PMCID: PMC9464506 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980022001756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of online grocery shopping in a nationally representative sample and describe demographic correlates with online grocery shopping. DESIGN The Nielsen COVID-19 Shopper Behavior Survey was administered to a subset of Nielsen National Consumer Panel participants in July 2020. We used survey weighted-multivariable logistic regression to examine demographic correlates of having ever online grocery shopped. SETTING Online survey. PARTICIPANTS 18 598 Nielsen National Consumer Panel participants in the USA. RESULTS Thirty-nine percent of respondents had purchased groceries online, and among prior purchasers, 89 % indicated that they would continue to online grocery shop in the next month. Canned/packaged foods were the most shopped for grocery category online, followed by beverages, fresh foods and lastly frozen foods. In adjusted analyses, younger respondents (39 years or less) were more likely (47 %) to have ever shopped for groceries online than older age groups (40-54 years, 55-64 years and 65+ years) (29 %, 22 % and 23 %, respectively, all P < 0·001). Those with greater than a college degree were more likely to have ever grocery shopped online (45 %) than respondents with some college education (39 %) and with a high school education or less (32 %) (both P < 0·001). Having children, having a higher income and experiencing food insecurity, particularly among higher income food-insecure households, were also associated with a higher probability of prior online grocery shopping. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the transition to online grocery shopping. Future research should explore the nutrition implications of online grocery shopping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily W Duffy
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Carolina Population Center, 123 W Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC27516, USA
| | - Amy Lo
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Carolina Population Center, 123 W Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC27516, USA
| | - Marissa G Hall
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Carolina Population Center, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lindsey Smith Taillie
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Carolina Population Center, 123 W Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC27516, USA
| | - Shu Wen Ng
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Carolina Population Center, 123 W Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC27516, USA
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20
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Ali SH, Lloyd-Montgomery J, Lowery CM, Vedovato GM, Trude ACB. Equity-Promoting Strategies in Online Grocery Shopping: Recommendations Provided by Households of Low Income. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 54:998-1010. [PMID: 36357044 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2022.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore barriers and facilitators of online grocery shopping and identify community-driven strategies to promote equity in online food access. DESIGN This qualitative study used a purposive recruitment strategy to conduct 11 focus groups and 5 in-depth interviews between November 2020 and March 2021. SETTING Data collection was conducted virtually with participants residing in diverse (majority urban) regions of Maryland. PARICIPANTS 44 primary household food purchasers with young children (aged < 8 years) eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). PHENOMENON OF INTEREST Barriers and facilitators of online grocery shopping and strategies elicited by the community to leverage SNAP and online food retailer services to reduce inequities in healthy food access. ANALYSIS We coded and analyzed transcripts on the basis of the Socioecological Model, Theory of Planned Behavior, and an Equity-Oriented Framework. RESULTS Overall, we identified 10 themes across all socioecological levels, all of which reflected both barriers and facilitators to online shopping: (1) individual: trust of shoppers, technology, (2) interpersonal: spousal/children needs, (3) community: safety and security, (4) organizational: retail experience and food quality, and (5) policy: SNAP and structural inequities. Participant recommendations included improving food access and communication with hired shoppers, implementing more payment/cost-saving options, and offering educational programming for SNAP participants on using benefits online. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Households of low-income identified barriers and facilitators of online grocery shopping across the socioecological levels, emphasizing the need for a multilevel approach to equity promotion. We recommend future work to explore the suggested actionable pathways, which involve delivery providers, grocery stores, nutrition educators, and policymakers leveraging online grocery features (ie, meal planning support) and policies (ie, expansion of the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot to more retailers) to reducing deterrents (ie, delivery fees waived) for an equity-promoting online grocery environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahmir H Ali
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Joy Lloyd-Montgomery
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Caitlin M Lowery
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Gabriela M Vedovato
- Institute of Health and Society, Federal University of São Paulo, Santos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Angela C B Trude
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York, NY.
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21
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State Agencies' Perspectives on Planning and Preparing for WIC Online Ordering Implementation. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14214447. [PMID: 36364709 PMCID: PMC9657621 DOI: 10.3390/nu14214447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Online ordering for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has the potential to alleviate some of the barriers faced by WIC participants when shopping with their WIC food benefits. WIC State agencies are the leaders in planning, preparing, implementing, maintaining, and expanding WIC online ordering. Cross-sectional web-based survey research was utilized to identify barriers to implementing WIC online ordering, as well as the support needed to overcome those barriers, from a WIC State agency perspective. Web surveys were administered to 81 WIC State agencies from 31 January 2022 to 1 April 2022. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, and one-way analysis of variance were used to analyze the findings. Open-ended responses were analyzed using a qualitative iterative approach. WIC State agencies noted several barriers to implementing WIC online ordering, including limited staff capacity, WIC retailer interest, and technological capabilities.
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22
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Vedovato GM, Ali SH, Lowery CM, Trude ACB. Giving Families a Voice for Equitable Healthy Food Access in the Wake of Online Grocery Shopping. Nutrients 2022; 14:4377. [PMID: 36297061 PMCID: PMC9609455 DOI: 10.3390/nu14204377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the views of families from low-income backgrounds about inequities in healthy food access and grocery purchase is critical to food access policies. This study explored perspectives of families eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) on healthy food access in physical and online grocery environments. The qualitative design used purposive sampling of 44 primary household food purchasers with children (aged ≤ 8), between November 2020-March 2021, through 11 online focus groups and 5 in-depth interviews. Grounded theory was used to identify community-level perceived inequities, including influences of COVID-19 pandemic, SNAP and online grocery services. The most salient perceived causes of inequitable food access were neighborhood resource deficiencies and public transportation limitations. Rural communities, people with disabilities, older adults, racially and ethnically diverse groups were perceived to be disproportionately impacted by food inequities, which were exacerbated by the pandemic. The ability to use SNAP benefits to buy foods online facilitated healthy food access. Delivery fees and lack of control over food selection were barriers. Barriers to healthy food access aggravated by SNAP included social stigma, inability to acquire cooked meals, and inadequate amount of monthly funds. Findings provide a foundation for policy redesign to promote equitable healthy food systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela M. Vedovato
- Institute of Health and Society, Federal University of São Paulo, Santos 11015-021, SP, Brazil
| | - Shahmir H. Ali
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Caitlin M. Lowery
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Angela C. B. Trude
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York, NY 10003, USA
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23
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Gillespie R, DeWitt E, Trude ACB, Haynes-Maslow L, Hudson T, Anderson-Steeves E, Barr M, Gustafson A. Barriers and Facilitators of Online Grocery Services: Perceptions from Rural and Urban Grocery Store Managers. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183794. [PMID: 36145165 PMCID: PMC9502010 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Online grocery shopping has expanded rapidly in the U.S., yet little is known about the retailer’s perceptions of online grocery services, which can aid in the expansion of services. Furthermore, many barriers to online grocery utilization persist across geographic areas, especially among Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)-authorized retailers. This study captured perceived barriers and facilitators of online grocery shopping for managers of SNAP-authorized retailers. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers (n = 23) of grocery stores/supermarkets in urban and rural areas across four different states: TN, KY, NC, and NY. Grocery store managers offering online ordering (n = 15) and managers from brick-and-mortar stores without online services (n = 8) participated in the interviews. Three primary themes emerged among managers offering online ordering: (1) order fulfillment challenges, (2) perceived customer barriers, and (3) perceived customer benefits. Among managers at brick-and-mortar locations without online services, four major themes emerged: (1) thoughts on implementing online shopping, (2) COVID-19 pandemic impacts, (3) competition with other stores, and (4) benefits of maintaining brick-and-mortar shopping. This study provides a deeper understanding of retailers’ experience and perceptions of online grocery services among stores authorized to accept SNAP benefits. This perspective is necessary to inform policies and enhance the evolving virtual food marketplace for SNAP customers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Gillespie
- Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-859-257-7793
| | - Emily DeWitt
- Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Angela C. B. Trude
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Lindsey Haynes-Maslow
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Travis Hudson
- Department of Nutrition, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Elizabeth Anderson-Steeves
- Department of Nutrition, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE 68154, USA
| | - Makenzie Barr
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Alison Gustafson
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
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24
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Headrick G, Khandpur N, Perez C, Taillie LS, Bleich SN, Rimm EB, Moran A. Content Analysis of Online Grocery Retail Policies and Practices Affecting Healthy Food Access. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 54:219-229. [PMID: 34920967 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe policies and practices of online grocery retailers that may affect healthy food access, including retailers participating in the US Department of Agriculture's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Online Purchasing Pilot. DESIGN Cross-sectional, quantitative content analysis of 21 online grocery retail websites from November 2019 to January 2020. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Data collected using a coding instrument capturing the presence of policies and practices related to (1) online purchasing and delivery access; (2) availability of features that allow price comparisons and provide nutrition information; and (3) data privacy. ANALYSIS Descriptive statistics for features, practices, and policies across online grocery retail websites. RESULTS Most retailers (95%) added fees to online orders. Among pilot retailers, 38% added ≥ 3 fees, and 50% required a minimum order > $15. Few retailers (29%) displayed Nutrition Facts Labels on all products, including 50% of pilot retailers. All retailers collected personal information from shoppers and automatically shared data with affiliated companies. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS High fees, limited access to nutrition information on retailer sites, and lack of data privacy are prevalent in online grocery retail settings, including among Online Purchasing Pilot retailers. Online retail practices may perpetuate disparities in healthy food access by discouraging use through fees and making nutritious food choices difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabby Headrick
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD.
| | - Neha Khandpur
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Department of Nutrition, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Crystal Perez
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Lindsey Smith Taillie
- Department of Nutrition, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Caroline Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Sara N Bleich
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Eric B Rimm
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Alyssa Moran
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
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Zhang Q, Park K, Zhang J, Tang C. The Online Ordering Behaviors among Participants in the Oklahoma Women, Infants, and Children Program: A Cross-Sectional Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031805. [PMID: 35162828 PMCID: PMC8835125 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a nutrition assistance program in the United States (U.S.). Participants in the program redeem their prescribed food benefits in WIC-authorized grocery stores. Online ordering is an innovative method being pilot-tested in some stores to facilitate WIC participants’ food benefit redemption, which has become especially important in the COVID-19 pandemic. The present research aimed to examine the online ordering (OO) behaviors among 726 WIC households who adopted WIC OO in a grocery chain, XYZ (anonymous) store, in Oklahoma (OK). These households represented approximately 5% of WIC households who redeemed WIC benefits in XYZ stores during the study period, which was 1 July to 31 December 2020. This period was during the COVID-19 pandemic but after the temporary lockdown in Oklahoma had been lifted. Descriptive statistics were estimated for WIC OO households’ adoption behaviors and their orders. The Cox proportional hazard model and zero-truncated negative binomial regression were applied to examine the relationship between participants’ socio-demographics and the length of time between 1 July 2020, and their first OO, as well as the number of WIC online orders. About 80% of these online orders were picked up without any changes. Minority households had a significantly longer time before adopting their first OO (hazard ratio (HR) < 1, p < 0.001), while households with a child or a woman participant, or more participants, had a shorter time before adopting OO (HR > 1, p < 0.05). Non-Hispanic black households had a fewer number of OOs than non-Hispanic white households (B = −0.374, p = 0.007). OO adoption varied across socio-demographics. More efforts are needed to ensure equal access and adoption of WIC OO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- School of Community and Environmental Health, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-757-683-6870
| | - Kayoung Park
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA;
| | - Junzhou Zhang
- Department of Marketing, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA;
| | - Chuanyi Tang
- Department of Marketing, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA;
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Gustafson A, Gillespie R, DeWitt E, Cox B, Dunaway B, Haynes-Maslow L, Steeves EA, Trude ACB. Online Pilot Grocery Intervention among Rural and Urban Residents Aimed to Improve Purchasing Habits. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:871. [PMID: 35055688 PMCID: PMC8775883 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Online grocery shopping has the potential to improve access to food, particularly among low-income households located in urban food deserts and rural communities. The primary aim of this pilot intervention was to test whether a three-armed online grocery trial improved fruit and vegetable (F&V) purchases. Rural and urban adults across seven counties in Kentucky, Maryland, and North Carolina were recruited to participate in an 8-week intervention in fall 2021. A total of 184 adults were enrolled into the following groups: (1) brick-and-mortar "BM" (control participants only received reminders to submit weekly grocery shopping receipts); (2) online-only with no support "O" (participants received weekly reminders to grocery shop online and to submit itemized receipts); and (3) online shopping with intervention nudges "O+I" (participants received nudges three times per week to grocery shop online, meal ideas, recipes, Facebook group support, and weekly reminders to shop online and to submit itemized receipts). On average, reported food spending on F/V by the O+I participants was USD 6.84 more compared to the BM arm. Online shopping with behavioral nudges and nutrition information shows great promise for helping customers in diverse locations to navigate the increasing presence of online grocery shopping platforms and to improve F&V purchases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Gustafson
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA; (B.C.); (B.D.)
| | - Rachel Gillespie
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA; (R.G.); (E.D.)
| | - Emily DeWitt
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA; (R.G.); (E.D.)
| | - Brittany Cox
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA; (B.C.); (B.D.)
| | - Brynnan Dunaway
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA; (B.C.); (B.D.)
| | - Lindsey Haynes-Maslow
- Agricultural & Human Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
| | | | - Angela C. B. Trude
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York City, NY 10003, USA;
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Gittelsohn J, Kasprzak CM, Hill AB, Sundermeir SM, Laska MN, Dombrowski RD, DeAngelo J, Odoms-Young A, Leone LA. Increasing Healthy Food Access for Low-Income Communities: Protocol of the Healthy Community Stores Case Study Project. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:690. [PMID: 35055512 PMCID: PMC8775718 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Improving healthy food access in low-income communities continues to be a public health challenge. One strategy for improving healthy food access has been to introduce community food stores, with the mission of increasing healthy food access; however, no study has explored the experiences of different initiatives and models in opening and sustaining healthy food stores. This study used a case study approach to understand the experiences of healthy food stores in low-income communities. The purpose of this paper is to describe the methodology used and protocol followed. A case study approach was used to describe seven healthy food stores across urban settings in the U.S. Each site individually coded their cases, and meetings were held to discuss emerging and cross-cutting themes. A cross-case analysis approach was used to produce a series of papers detailing the results of each theme. Most case studies were on for-profit, full-service grocery stores, with store sizes ranging from 900 to 65,000 square feet. Healthy Food Availability scores across sites ranged from 11.6 (low) to 26.5 (high). The papers resulting from this study will detail the key findings of the case studies and will focus on the challenges, strategies, and experiences of retail food stores attempting to improve healthy food access for disadvantaged communities. The work presented in this special issue will help to advance research in the area of community food stores, and the recommendations can be used by aspiring, new, and current community food store owners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Gittelsohn
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Christina M. Kasprzak
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (C.M.K.); (L.A.L.)
- Community Health Interventions Lab, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
| | - Alex B. Hill
- Urban Studies and Planning and Detroit Food Map Initiative, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA;
| | - Samantha M. Sundermeir
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Melissa N. Laska
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Rachael D. Dombrowski
- Division of Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies, College of Education, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA;
| | - Julia DeAngelo
- Departments of Health Policy Management & Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Angela Odoms-Young
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA;
| | - Lucia A. Leone
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (C.M.K.); (L.A.L.)
- Community Health Interventions Lab, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
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Abstract
Context Online grocery services are an emerging component of the food system with the potential to address disparities in access to healthy food. Objective We assessed the barriers and facilitators of equitable access to healthy foods in the online grocery environment, and the psychosocial, purchasing, and dietary behaviors related to its use among low-income, diverse populations. Data Sources Four electronic databases were searched to identify relevant literature; 16 studies were identified. Results Barriers to equitable access to healthy food included cost and limited availability of online grocery services in food deserts and rural areas. The expansion of online grocery services and the ability to use nutrition assistance benefits online were equity-promoting factors. Perceived low control over food selection was a psychosocial factor that discouraged online grocery use, whereas convenience and lower perceived stress were facilitators. Findings were mixed regarding healthfulness of foods purchased online. Although few studies assessed diet, healthy food consumption was associated with online grocery use. Conclusion Researchers should assess the impact of online grocery shopping on low-income families’ food purchases and diet. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration no. CRD: 42021240277
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela C B Trude
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- A.C.B. Trude, 411 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10003, USA. E-mail:
| | - Caitlin M Lowery
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shahmir H Ali
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gabriela M Vedovato
- Institute of Health and Society, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Santos, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Food and Nutrition Related Concerns Post Lockdown during COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Association with Dietary Behaviors. Foods 2021; 10:foods10112858. [PMID: 34829137 PMCID: PMC8624826 DOI: 10.3390/foods10112858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore food and nutrition related concerns during the post-lockdown period and their impacts on food shopping, preparation, and eating behaviors. DESIGN A cross-sectional study was conducted through online questionnaire. We collected data on food and nutrition related concerns, socio-demographic characteristics, and changes in dietary behaviors. PARTICIPANTS A total of 2267 responses were received from people living in 31 provinces across mainland China and 1994 participants were included in the final analysis. ANALYSIS Linear and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association among food and nutrition related concerns, socio-demographic factors, and dietary behaviors Results: About 56% of participants reported moderate to high levels of concerns related to food and nutrition. Contracting the virus when dining out or through contaminated foods were the top two concerns, followed by overnutrition. Higher levels of concerns were found among people who were older, overweight, or obese, having lower income and education, and living in urban areas, or whose family contained vulnerable individuals. Compared with the pre-COVID-19 period, people who were more concerned about food and nutrition were more likely to report changes in their food purchases and consumption; they were also more likely to eat from individual plates, using serving chopsticks, and separating plates and utensils for raw and cooked foods during the post COVID-19 lockdown period. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATION Food and nutrition related concerns during the post-lockdown period were prevalent and associated with changes in dietary behaviors. Preventative policies and nutritional guidance should be developed to address these concerns in order to reduce inappropriate dietary behaviors amid public health crises.
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Fernandez MA, Raine KD. Digital Food Retail: Public Health Opportunities. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113789. [PMID: 34836044 PMCID: PMC8624168 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
For over two decades, digital food retail services have been emerging alongside advances in mobile technology and improved access to wi-fi. Digitalization has driven changes within the food environment, complicating an already complex system that influences food-related behaviors and eating practices. Digital food retail services support an infrastructure that enhances commercial food systems by extending access to and availability of highly processed foods, further escalating poor dietary intakes. However, digital food retail services are heterogeneous–food delivery apps, online groceries, and meal kits–and can be feasibly adapted to nutrition interventions and personalized to individual needs. Although sparse, new evidence indicates great potential for digital food retail services to address food insecurity in urban areas and to support healthy eating by making it easier to select, plan, and prepare meals. Digital food retail services are a product of the digital transformation that reflect consumers’ constant need for convenience, which must be addressed in future research and interventions. This paper will discuss public health opportunities that are emerging from the global uptake of digital food retail services, with a focus on online groceries, food delivery apps, and meal kits.
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Zatz LY, Moran AJ, Franckle RL, Block JP, Hou T, Blue D, Greene JC, Gortmaker S, Bleich SN, Polacsek M, Thorndike AN, Mande JR, Rimm EB. Comparing shopper characteristics by online grocery ordering use among households in low-income communities in Maine. Public Health Nutr 2021; 24:5127-5132. [PMID: 34030759 PMCID: PMC11082826 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980021002238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Online grocery shopping could improve access to healthy food, but it may not be equally accessible to all populations - especially those at higher risk for food insecurity. The current study aimed to compare the socio-demographic characteristics of families who ordered groceries online v. those who only shopped in-store. DESIGN We analysed enrollment survey and 44 weeks of individually linked grocery transaction data. We used univariate χ2 and t-tests and logistic regression to assess differences in socio-demographic characteristics between households that only shopped in-store and those that shopped online with curbside pickup (online only or online and in-store). SETTING Two Maine supermarkets. PARTICIPANTS 863 parents or caregivers of children under 18 years old enrolled in two fruit and vegetable incentive trials. RESULTS Participants had a total of 32 757 transactions. In univariate assessments, online shoppers had higher incomes (P < 0 0001), were less likely to participate in Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP; P < 0 0001) and were more likely to be female (P = 0·04). Most online shoppers were 30-39 years old, and few were 50 years or older (P = 0·003). After controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, number of children, number of adults, income and SNAP participation, female primary shoppers (OR = 2·75, P = 0·003), number of children (OR = 1·27, P = 0·04) and income (OR = 3·91 for 186-300 % federal poverty line (FPL) and OR = 6·92 for >300 % FPL, P < 0·0001) were significantly associated with likelihood of shopping online. CONCLUSIONS In the current study of Maine families, low-income shoppers were significantly less likely to utilise online grocery ordering with curbside pickup. Future studies could focus on elucidating barriers and developing strategies to improve access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Y Zatz
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA02115, USA
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alyssa J Moran
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca L Franckle
- Program in Global Public Health and the Common Good, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jason P Block
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tao Hou
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA02115, USA
| | - Dan Blue
- Hannaford Marketing, Hannaford Supermarkets, Scarborough, ME, USA
| | | | - Steven Gortmaker
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sara N Bleich
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michele Polacsek
- Westbrook College of Health Professions, University of New England, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Anne N Thorndike
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jerold R Mande
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA02115, USA
| | - Eric B Rimm
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA02115, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Lee JJ, Ahmed M, Zhang T, Weippert MV, Schermel A, L’Abbé MR. The Availability and Quality of Food Labelling Components in the Canadian E-Grocery Retail Environment. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082611. [PMID: 34444771 PMCID: PMC8399674 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Although packaged foods sold in retail stores must follow food labelling regulations, there are no e-grocery food labelling regulations to mandate and standardize the availability and presentation of product information. Therefore, the objective of the study was to evaluate the availability and quality of food labelling components in the Canadian e-grocery retail environment. Methods: A sample of fresh and pre-packaged products was identified on eight leading grocery retail websites in Canada, to assess the availability and quality of food labelling components. Results: Out of 555 product searches, all products were accompanied by product images with front-of-pack images more readily available (96.0%) than back-of-pack (12.4%) and other side panel images (3.1%). The following mandatory nutrition information was available for 61.1% of the products: nutrition facts table (68.8%), ingredient (73.9%), and allergen (53.8%) information. The majority of the nutrition information was available after scrolling down, clicking additionally on the description page, or viewing only as an image. Date markings were not available; packaging material information was available for 2.0% of the products. Conclusions: There was wide variability and inconsistencies in the presentation of food labelling components in the e-grocery retail environment, which can be barriers in enabling Canadians to make informed purchasing decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J. Lee
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; (J.J.L.); (M.A.); (M.V.W.); (A.S.)
| | - Mavra Ahmed
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; (J.J.L.); (M.A.); (M.V.W.); (A.S.)
- Joannah & Brian Lawson Centre for Child Nutrition, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada;
| | - Madyson V. Weippert
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; (J.J.L.); (M.A.); (M.V.W.); (A.S.)
| | - Alyssa Schermel
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; (J.J.L.); (M.A.); (M.V.W.); (A.S.)
| | - Mary R. L’Abbé
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; (J.J.L.); (M.A.); (M.V.W.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-416-946-7545
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Zimmer M, McElrone M, Anderson Steeves ET. Feasibility and Acceptability of a "Click & Collect" WIC Online Ordering Pilot. J Acad Nutr Diet 2021; 121:2464-2474.e1. [PMID: 34219049 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2021.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Barriers to shopping for foods in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) have been reported. Online ordering options may improve the WIC shopping experience but are understudied. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to test feasibility and acceptability of a "Click & Collect" model for WIC online ordering from the perspective of WIC participants. DESIGN A Click & Collect online ordering model was adapted to the WIC program and implemented at 1 grocery store. In the Click & Collect model, WIC participants placed an online order ("click"), then completed payment and pickup at the store ("collect"). PARTICIPANTS/SETTING Twenty-five WIC participants in East Tennessee were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Feasibility was assessed by examining online order summaries and store receipts to determine whether WIC transactions were completed successfully. Acceptability was assessed by qualitative semi-structured interviews conducted with WIC participants after participating in the pilot. ANALYSES PERFORMED Descriptive statistics were used to analyze sociodemographic and purchase data in SPSS software, version 27. Qualitative interviews were transcribed and analyzed for themes using directed content analysis in NVivo, version 12.0. RESULTS All WIC participants in the study placed an online order, and 96% picked up the order, indicating a high degree of feasibility. In follow-up qualitative interviews, WIC participants reported interest in the Click & Collect model, and provided suggestions to improve practicality across the following 4 primary themes: website experience, curbside pickup, online shopping fee, and shopping preferences. CONCLUSIONS The pilot was successfully implemented at 1 store. Click & Collect online ordering was feasible and acceptable to WIC participants, although additional work is needed to make it practical. Online shopping options for the WIC program should be further explored to expand access to nutritious WIC foods in families with low income.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Zimmer
- (1)National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute. At the time of the study, she was a student, department of public health, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
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Zimmer MC, Beaird J, Steeves ETA. WIC Participants' Perspectives About Online Ordering and Technology in the WIC Program. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2021; 53:602-607. [PMID: 33132035 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to assess the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) participants' perceptions about ordering WIC groceries online. METHODS Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted with 24 WIC participants in East Tennessee from May to October 2019. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a grounded theory approach. RESULTS Participants were interested in online ordering and spoke favorably about delivery and pickup options. Participants were willing to pay $2-5 to order online, though they were more willing to pay for a home or curbside delivery than an in-store pickup. Participants suggested additional ways to integrate technology into WIC food retail operations, such as providing benefit balances via text message and developing a mobile phone application for Tennessee WIC. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Findings can inform pilot tests for WIC online ordering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan C Zimmer
- Department of Nutrition, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN; Department of Public Health, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
| | - Jacob Beaird
- Department of Nutrition, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
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