The Persistence of L.A.\u27s Grocery Gap: The Need for a New Food Policy and Approach to Market Development

Abstract

This report chronicles the gap between the number of supermarkets located in low-income and inner city communities versus middle and upper-income, and suburban communities in Los Angeles. Chapter 1 highlights the discrepancies in access to supermarkets according to household income and racial make up of the surrounding neighborhood, and details how the gap affects price and quality. Chapter 2 describes the potential health ramifications of a diet affected by limited access to fresh, affordable, healthy foods. Chapter 3 explores various factors that have been identified as key barriers for supermarket investment in low-income communities. Chapter 4 then explores opportunities and advantages for such investment, with emphasis on those areas where barriers have been identified. Chapter 5 traces the evolution of the urban grocery store gap in Los Angeles from the first supermarkets up to the 1992 civil unrest. Chapter 6 explains the current situation in Los Angeles, with updates of the Rebuild LA efforts following the 1992 civil unrest, as well as an analysis of the impact of race and income on supermarket access. Chapter 7 outlines recommendations for an improved future of inner city supermarket access that includes an active public sector, a private sector that is held accountable, and strong community involvement