The purpose of this one-year pilot project was to refine community-directed advocacy to increase the availability of low-fat, high fiber foods and fruits and vegetables in selected grocery stores and restaurants. Specifically, the project sought to influence the dietary habits of African American residents of South Central and Mid Central Los Angeles by using community advocacy to increase the availability of low-fat foods and fruits and vegetables in 5-10 grocery stores and restaurants. Three separate formative research activities were conducted to better inform the program design. A consumer survey was conducted with approximately 125 community members to determine the grocery stores and restaurants they frequented, and their rating of the price, quality, and foods sold at those establishments. Consumer purchasing data, compiled by a marketing firm, was used to determine food expenditures and food preferences. These two data sources were used to identify businesses to work with, specific changes to be requested, and to demonstrate consumer demand for healthy foods. In-depth open-ended interviews were conducted with managers of ten grocery stores and restaurants to determine incentives and barriers to selling low-fat, high fiber foods and fruits and vegetables. Community advocates used these results to develop an advocacy strategy that was feasible for business managers to implement. Results from each formative research activity will be presented, along with the ways in which research results were used to tailor the original program design.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the presentation, audience members will be able to: 1. List three formative research techniques. 2. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using formative research in program planning.
Keywords: Evaluation, Public Health Education and Health Promotion
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Centers for Disease Control and Claritas, Inc.
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.