From Food Desert to Food Oasis: The Potential Influence of Food Retailers on Childhood Obesity Rates

Elizabeth Howlett (), Cassandra Davis () and Scot Burton ()
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Elizabeth Howlett: University of Arkansas
Cassandra Davis: University of Arkansas
Scot Burton: University of Arkansas

Journal of Business Ethics, 2016, vol. 139, issue 2, No 1, 215-224

Abstract: Abstract Few studies have examined the influence of the food environment on obesity rates among very young, low-income consumers. This research contributes to this growing literature by examining the relationship between modifications to the retail environment and obesity rates for low-income, preschool-aged children. Based on data combined from various secondary sources, this study finds that changes in the retail environment are significantly related to obesity rates. More specifically, the authors find a positive relationship between the number of convenience stores in the retail environment and obesity rates among low-income, preschool-aged children. Results also show that the percent change in grocery stores and supercenters and club stores in the retail environment is negatively related to the obesity rates of low-income, preschool-aged children [i.e., as grocery stores and supercenters/club stores increase (decrease), obesity decreases (increases)].Further, the percent change in supercenters and club stores mediates the positive relationship between participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and obesity rates.

Keywords: Food environment; Social responsibility; Childhood obesity; Low-income; Food deserts (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (5)

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DOI: 10.1007/s10551-015-2605-5

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