An exploration of the motives underlying the selection of the food outlets where people purchase fresh foods in Montevideo, Uruguay

Abstract

To explore the motives underlying the selection of the food outlets where people purchase 2 categories of fresh foods. Cross-sectional telephone survey, conducted in May 2024. 505 adult residents of Montevideo involved in food purchasing for the household, recruited by a survey company. Outlet where participants reported purchasing two categories of fresh foods (fruits and vegetables, and meat), and motives underlying their choice of store. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models to assess the associations between the likelihood of purchasing the 2 categories at each type of store and motives underlying their choice, while controlling for socio-demographic variables. Farmers' markets, supermarkets, fruit and vegetable stores, and butchers' shops were identified as the primary outlets for purchasing the target categories. Price, quality, convenience and proximity were the most frequently mentioned motives underlying the choice of outlet. Likelihood of purchasing at different stores was significantly associated with motives underlying the choice of outlet and socio-economic characteristics. People purchase fresh foods in different types of outlets due to a wide range of factors beyond proximity. Incorporating these factors in food environment research may contribute to develop more effective interventions.