Beyond food prices: Study reveals multiple barriers to micronutrient-rich diets among vulnerable consumers
Having access to enough food does not necessarily mean having access to a nutritionally adequate diet.
A new study has revealed that multiple barriers can make it difficult for people experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage to achieve a nutritionally adequate diet. Conducted in Italy and Poland, the research found that factors such as high food prices, transportation difficulties, limited cooking facilities, and culturally inappropriate food provision can all contribute to the challenge of accessing and consuming micronutrient-rich diets.
These barriers often intersect, making it harder for disadvantaged individuals to meet their nutritional needs. The study, led by the European Food Information Council (EUFIC) as part of the EU-funded Zero Hidden Hunger EU project, involved focus groups with 68 beneficiaries of charitable organizations in Trieste (Italy) and Olsztyn (Poland).
Participants expressed preferences for obtaining micronutrients through fresh, minimally processed, local, or culturally appropriate foods, while affordability and availability could restrict their ability to act on these preferences. Socioeconomically disadvantaged people are particularly affected by micronutrient deficiencies, but few studies have explored the reasons behind this.
Brief written by urgent.news from Medical Xpress's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
