Conceptual Model on Access to Food in the Favela Food Environment

• Published in: International journal of environmental research and public health Vol. 21; no. 11; p. 1422
• Main Authors: Rocha, Luana, Canella, Daniela, Canuto, Raquel, Jardim, Mariana, Cardoso, Letícia, Friche, Amelia, Mendes, Larissa
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Switzerland MDPI AG 26.10.2024; MDPI
• Subjects: Brazil; Civil society; Construction; Focus groups; Food; Food Supply; Health care; Humans; Models, Theoretical; Neighborhoods; Nutrition Policy; Public services; Socioeconomic Factors; Urban planning; Brazil; food environment; conceptual model; favela; food access
• ISSN: 1660-4601; 1661-7827; 1660-4601
• DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21111422

The inequalities of Brazilian society are amplified in favelas, affecting access to basic sanitation, health, education services, and food. More research is needed to better understand the favela food environment and propose appropriate public food and nutrition policies to increase the availability of and access to healthy food. In this context, this study aimed to develop a conceptual model of the relationship between access to food and the favela food environment and its determinants. In developing the conceptual model, this study undertook a bibliographical survey of the food environment, and a preliminary version was submitted to an expert panel. The model represents a set of dimensions (individual, micro-environment, macro-environment, and decision-making) and elements that interact in a complex manner and help understand access to food in areas subject to multiple social vulnerabilities. This model can guide future research and aid policymakers in designing effective strategies to improve the food security and health of populations in areas of high socio-spatial vulnerability.