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ADOPT A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING AND ENCOURAGING HEALTHY FOOD OPTIONS AT RETAIL CHECKOUT
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution supporting and encouraging retail establishments to provide healthy food options at one (1) store checkout aisle.
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Summary
The City of Stockton is committed to providing an environment where the health, safety, and welfare of all who live, work, and do business in the City of Stockton are a top priority. Adopting this resolution will reinforce the City’s dedication to this goal by supporting and encouraging the sale and purchase of healthy food options, including but not limited to foods such as grains, water, yogurts, trail mix, etc., in one (1) aisle of retail establishments that provide food options.
DISCUSSION
Background
It is well-established that diets with an excess of added sugars and sodium are correlated to chronic health issues including diabetes, high blood pressure, and strokes. Food choices are strongly affected by the environments in which they are made.
A 2015 study by the California State University Northridge analyzed food deserts, an urban area in which it is difficult to buy affordable or good-quality fresh food, and supermarket accessibility in Stockton, California.
The study showed the complex relationships between placement of supermarkets in areas and population dynamics within city boundaries. The highest distressed areas had the least number of supermarkets within walking distance of homes. The study showed that at risk populations could be affected by various nutritional illnesses that cost millions of dollars in health care.
Adding to these challenges, the placement of unhealthy snacks near checkout registers increases the likelihood that consumers will purchase those types of foods and drinks, thus undermining the consumer health choices and public health initiatives.
Present Situation
Today’s food landscape plays a large role in determining what people purchase and consume. Unhealthy food and beverages are promoted and placed repeatedly