Exploratory survey of informal vendor-sold fast food in rural South Africa

  • Alison Bridget Bernadette Feeley Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand
  • Kathleen Kahn MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Rhian Twine MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Shane Norris Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine Faculty of Health Sciences University of the Witwatersrand
Keywords: Fast foods, rural

Abstract

Background: South Africa is experiencing a dramatic increase in obesity in both urban and rural areas. It is important to understand access to food better and how this influences food choice in rural environments. This study aimed to explore the nature and availability of fast foods in rural South Africa. Method: Convenience sampling was used to procure fast food samples. The study was conducted in rural northeast South Africa in four villages, part of the South African Medical Research Council and University of the Witwatersrand-Agincourt Health and Socio-Demographic Surveillance System (HSDSS). The outcome measures were assessment of the availability of fast foods and their macronutrient composition. Results: This study highlights the availability of fast foods through informal community vendors. Of note is the limited variety of foods sold by informal vendors, of which a striking two thirds were either vetkoek or fried chips, which on average yielded 943–5 552 kJ and 11–64 g fat. Additionally, we found that rural vendors sold a local fast food item, the kota. Conclusion: Given that rural South Africa is undergoing rapid health, social, and nutrition transitions, this study signals the need for more comprehensive research to improve our understanding of the contributory role of fast food and its connection with both livelihoods and the burgeoning obesity epidemic in poorer rural areas. It is through better research and greater understanding that we can work with communities and local government to improve access to more nutrient-rich foods that are less energy dense.

Author Biographies

Alison Bridget Bernadette Feeley, Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand
BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition, MSc Public Health Nutrition London School Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Currently: Scientist @ Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit Witwatersrand University
Kathleen Kahn, MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Associate Professor: Health and Population Division School of Public Health University of the Witwatersrand
Rhian Twine, MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
LINC Office Coordinator Child Health Theme Officer
Shane Norris, Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine Faculty of Health Sciences University of the Witwatersrand
Director and Associate Professor Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit
Published
2011-09-04
How to Cite
Feeley, A., Kahn, K., Twine, R., & Norris, S. (2011). Exploratory survey of informal vendor-sold fast food in rural South Africa. South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 24(4), 199-201. Retrieved from http://sajcn.redbricklibrary.com/index.php/SAJCN/article/view/525
Section
Short Reports or Scientific Letters