Improve Community Food Environments

Where do Americans buy food? Are sales increasing?

Yes, sales have increased over the past 20 years and Americans increasingly buy food for consumption away from home (e.g., restaurants, fast food).

Are food sales for consumption away from home increasing?

Yes, consumption patterns have shifted so that more Americans are eating away from home than at home. The majority of sales are at limited-service restaurants (e.g., fast food) and full-service restaurants.

Are food sales for consumption at home increasing?

Yes, food sales for consumption at home have increased over the past 20 years, largely driven by increased purchases at warehouse clubs and supercenters like Costco.

Are San Diego County retail food sales increasing?

Yes, retail food sales increased 31% ($4.1 billion) from 2012 to 2017. Grocery stores, restaurants, and fast food account for the majority of sales.

Are rates of adults that have obesity increasing? Does the percentage of San Diego County adults that have obesity differ by race/ethnicity?

Yes, the percentage of Black and Hispanic/Latinx adult San Diegans with obesity is higher than for White and Asian San Diegans.

Are rates of adults with diabetes increasing? Does the percentage of San Diego County adults with diabetes differ by race/ethnicity and region?

Yes, the rates of death from diabetes disproportionately impact Indigenous and Black communities in San Diego County. Rates are particularly high in the Central Region, including Central San Diego, Mid-City, and Southeastern San Diego, the East Region, including El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove, and the South Region, including Chula Vista and National City.