Flemish residents rate the healthiness of their local food options at an average of 3.1 out of 5, according to preliminary results from a Sciensano citizen survey aimed at mapping the availability and price of healthy food in Flanders and Brussels.
The health institute is seeking additional participants to use the app ‘De Grote Voedselkaart’ to ensure more comprehensive data.
Since its launch in late April, over 4,000 people have joined the survey, providing Sciensano with valuable insights. The institute aims to recruit 1,000 more participants by the end of August to increase the reliability of the findings.
Current participants are viewed as critical in their evaluations, reflecting a general sentiment that local food options could be healthier. Local short-chain outlets, like farmers’ markets and farm shops, received the highest score at 4.3 out of 5, seen as healthier choices by residents. Conversely, fast-food restaurants are rated lowest, scoring 1.9 out of 5. Final results and analysis will be released once all data is collected.
Participants are also actively suggesting solutions. One proposal includes organising a food council: “Discuss with the community what is important to us, the type of food we desire, and how to achieve it, taking control of our food from multinationals,” one proposal suggests. Another participant proposes initiatives to combat food waste, such as collecting surplus produce from fields, gardens, and orchards for local distribution.
The goal is for governments to use these findings to create healthier and more environmentally friendly food environments.
