‘Family food choices? Exploring the food-related practices of low-income families in the Republic of Ireland’
Presenter: Dr Elena Vaughan, Health Promotion Research Centre, National University of Ireland (NUI) Galway
Other Author: Professor Colette Kelly, Health Promotion Research Centre, NUI Galway
Introduction
A complex interplay of factors at various socio-ecological levels shape and constrain the dietary behaviours of families
and individuals. Families on lower incomes or tighter budgets may be even more constrained in their food choices
than those with higher incomes and more flexible budgets. The overall aim of this study was to explore the foodrelated
practices of families on a tight budget in the Republic of Ireland.
Method
Sixteen parents from the Republic of Ireland were recruited. A qualitative approach was employed, using photovoice
and creative mapping methods. During online interviews, maps and photos produced by participants were used as
reference for discussions about family food practices and decision-making processes. Transcripts were analysed using
an inductive thematic approach.
Findings
The results of the study were situated in Bronfenbrenner’s ecological framework to capture the full breadth of
influences that shaped food-related practices of lower income families in the Republic of Ireland. Families on
particularly tight budgets reported spending considerable time planning shopping, managing supplies and budgets,
and meal-planning. Single parents, and those on unemployment or disability payments are particularly constrained in
their choices, with budget, rather than nutritional need, often the main determinant of what was included in family
diets.
Discussion
Health promotion and public health discourse often centres around the concept of individual ‘choice’ and ‘personal
responsibility,’ however those on lower incomes are considerably more circumscribed in the choices available to
them. The findings of this study lend support to the view that structural, rather than individual-level drivers are key
to understanding and addressing population health behaviours.
Implications
Improving dietary behaviours and the associated negative health consequences of lower income families will require
earnest measures to address food poverty at the policy level.
Contact email: elena.vaughan@nuigalway.ie
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