Background:

Stores in remote Aboriginal communities have a crucial role in influencing the food supply to promote health. Food choices in remote communities are often limited in choice and more costly than in urban areas. There is limited evidence on the supply of takeaway foods and drinks in remote communities.

Methods:

Using semi-structured interviews with store managers, this study aimed to investigate the type of takeaway foods, and the barriers and enablers to healthy takeaway options in remote Aboriginal communities in Central Australia. Results from stage one of the study, which surveyed store managers from 20 of 27 eligible community or independently managed stores, are presented. Data was examined by key themes and analysed by healthier best-selling takeaway options.

Results/Discussions:

A range of food options were offered across the stores with healthier options, for example roast meals and wet dishes including curries, stews and pastas, reported amongst the best selling items. Enablers identified for healthy options included access to regular, focused support from nutritionists. Barriers included lack of consumer demand, inconsistent staffing, labour costs and limited storage and equipment.

The attitude and beliefs of the store manager, as well as the strategies used to influence consumer demand for healthier options greatly influenced the nutritional quality of the takeaway foods offered. Strategies included working with a nutritionist, implementing a nutrition policy and altering food preparation techniques and product placement to favour healthier choices.

Conclusions/implications:

Nutritionists must be aware of the barriers identified in this study when working with stores as recognition of these barriers may assist with engagement of store managers.  The results from this study however, indicate consumer demand for healthier options such as hot meals and sandwiches which were commonly reported among the best selling items. 

Nutritionists and store managers have a key role in working together to improve healthy takeaway food options in communities.