Food Cost Perceptions and Food Purchasing Practices of Uninsured, Low-Income, Rural Adults

Abstract

Healthful diets are commonly perceived as more costly, but food cost perceptions and purchasing practices of uninsured, low-income, rural adults have not been reported. Over three quarters of respondents (n = 80) perceived that healthy foods cost more; however, 97% of those indicated that they would be willing to purchase healthy foods if they cost less. Common food purchasing practices: looking for grocery specials, buying foods on sale, buying generic brands, using a grocery list, and limiting trips to restaurants. Common money-saving strategies (factor analysis): using strategies when eating away from home, using food assistance programs, and using fruits and vegetables when making food at home.