Consumer Food System Participation: A Community Analysis

Abstract

This study examined the prevalence, patterns, and health associations of consumer participation in different stages of the food system using a survey of 663 adults in one U.S. county. Consumer food system participation by stage was 43% in food production, 47% in food processing, 65% in food distribution, 62% in food acquisition, 61% in food preparation, and 100% in food consumption. Consumers participated in an average of 3.7 of these 6 possible stages. Women and unmarried people participated in more stages. Food system participation was associated with few health problems, although people reporting some illnesses had higher food system participation.

Co-Creating Value in Sustainable and Alternative Food Networks: The Case of Community Supported Agriculture in New Zealand

“…The social, economic and environmental spheres are integrated in different aspects of the life of the farms, but these spheres are all closely connected and interlaced through the adoption of the CSA system and its principles. The findings of this study have their roots in a context characterized by challenges and uncertainty, where the needs of contemporary consumers are complex and multifaceted [21]. The traditional food production system is facing a global environmental and social crisis, and it seems unable to find the right means to connect with consumers, to deeply understand their needs, and to accompany them to change contemporary consumption practices.…”

“…In line with these premises, we propose an exploratory qualitative study to analyze the CSA model through co-creation practices, exploring both consumers' and producers' experiences. This research approach offers a new angle of reflection that is broader and includes multiple levels, from the individual, to the social, and the organizational [21]. As this is qualitative exploratory research, using a constructivist epistemology, no preliminary hypotheses are formulated [78], but we present the broad research questions that oriented our work:…”

Interviewer effects in food acquisition surveys

“…Food acquisition surveys have been used to track habitual food and drink consumption, examine patterns of food acquisition by different demographic subgroups and understand food security (1)(2)(3) . Estimates produced by these surveys provide valuable insight for the drafting and modification of policies and programmes designed to promote healthy eating and better lifestyles, and for assisting groups of people who are identified as being food insecure.…”

Community Supported Agriculture as a Driver of Food-Related Well-Being

“…People enjoy the physical aspects of food, such as flavor, variety, freshness, and improved nutrition. Other personal benefits that can be linked to the well-being of individuals are the committed nature of CSA farm deliveries helping to enforce healthy dietary choices and improve health outcomes of participating individuals [18,93,94]. From a psychological aspect, belonging to a CSA offers people opportunities to prove their efficacy; facilitating behaviors and habits in line with the needs of the maintenance of healthy eating, and inspiring them to learn about agriculture and food cultivation practices.…”