Fruit and Vegetable Purchasing Patterns and Preferences in South Delhi

Abstract

This study examines associations between consumer characteristics, beliefs, and preferences and fruit and vegetable (FV) purchasing and intake in South Delhi, India. Home interviews were conducted with 245 households, using a structured questionnaire to assess FV consumption and purchasing frequency, spending, place of purchase, mode of travel, knowledge and attitudes toward organics, and beliefs about barriers to FV consumption. In-depth interviews with 62 experts and key informants validated survey findings that street vendors and markets are currently the dominant source of FV in South Delhi and that affordability, not accessibility, is the main barrier to increasing FV intake.

Keywords:

• access
• affordability
• food purchasing
• fruit and vegetables

Notes

¹The exchange rate was 53 Indian Rupees to the U.S. dollar on December 15, 2011, the midpoint of the survey.