Reach, utilization and health benefits of farmers' markets in the South Bronx

Introduction: Studies conducted in NYC document that individuals living in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods have limited access to fresh, affordable produce Unlike other low-income neighborhoods, the South Bronx benefits from over a dozen farmers' markets operating between July and November. This research investigates the role such markets play in the food landscape and their impact on South Bronx residents' eating habits.

Methodology: In summer 2007, 421 South Bronx residents were interviewed (English and Spanish) by NYC Department of Health staff at 11 local farmers' markets and 10 area supermarkets (convenience sample). Topics included: nutrition knowledge, cooking & eating habits, perceived availability of produce, and payment methods. Farmers' market / supermarket comparisons were also examined. Data were analyzed via t-tests and multiple regression analyses.

Results: Two-thirds of people interviewed at supermarkets also reported shopping at farmers' markets; individuals who shopped at both farmers' and supermarkets reported more produce consumption than those who shopped at supermarkets alone. 40% reported it was difficult or impossible to find fresh produce in the area and less than 14% knew the ‘5-a-day' fruit/vegetable consumption guideline. Farmers' markets were rated higher than supermarkets in terms of quality, price and variety. WIC/FMNP voucher recipients ate more servings of produce than non-recipients.

Discussion: Farmers' markets are utilized more broadly than anticipated making them good intervention points for DOH health-promotion/disease prevention efforts such as nutrition education. Advertising of the markets should be promoted and EBT/foodstamps should be accepted at all markets to increase produce availability for all South Bronx residents.