ABSTRACT
The neighborhood built environment is a very small part of the food environment picture. Even the much-publicized US food deserts in low-income areas, not replicated in other countries, are not necessarily lacking in healthy food options but rather the cost of healthy foods may be a greater barrier. A commonplace assumption is that neighborhood proximity to healthy food options is the primary driver behind one's food consumption habits. Black et al. conducted an international systematic review on neighborhood food environments. For example, a survey of over 500 residents in Philadelphia found that nearly 95 percent of participants shopped at large chain grocery stores outside of their neighborhood, as opposed to the local convenience stores. Improving access to healthy food options does not necessarily mean that consumers will change their eating habits, but it does mean that they have options to make healthy choices about their diet.
