Convenience and corner store fruit and vegetable access: attitudes and intentions among Colorado adults, 2014

The term food desert generally refers to areas where healthy food options, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, are unavailable within a certain number of miles. However, other factors besides distance may affect the ability to purchase healthier foods. The goal of this study was to understand Colorado adults’ perceptions of their access to healthy food options and to assess how other structural and socio-demographic factors may affect that access. Colorado adults were asked questions about self-reported access to healthy food, likelihood of buying fresh fruits and vegetables from convenience/corner stores if available, perceived characteristics of fruits and vegetables available for purchase near respondents’ residence, and demographics. A majority of Colorado adults in 2013–14 reported wanting fresh fruits and vegetables to be more available, more varied, higher quality, and/or less expensive. Socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, and regular shopping habits were significantly associated with reported likelihood of purchasing fruits and vegetables from a convenience/corner store if available. Factors other than proximity to a grocery store affect Colorado adults’ perceived access to healthy food options and should be considered in the development and implementation of public health programs and policies geared toward improving healthy food access.