Attitudes and Behaviors of Low-Income Food Heads of Households Toward Sustainable Food Systems Concepts

Abstract

To what extent do attitudes of low-income food heads of households correspond to beliefs held by mainstream local food movement members regarding food systems? For this qualitative study, 28 households (≤185% US poverty) in rural, village, and inner-city areas were purposively selected and interviewed about acquiring fruits and vegetables. Data analysis revealed 5 themes showing relationships between: household health and food production methods; economic development; food quality and point of origin; local food systems and civic-mindedness; self-respect, self-reliance, and informal food systems; and geographic and economic justice. Physical, economic, and knowledge barriers remain obstacles to greater support of local food systems.