AJPH Global News

Native Jamaicans are at risk for obesity and weight-related chronic diseases. Availability of health food and the cost may contribute to adverse health outcomes. In a 2015 study, researchers ranked 158 foods according to their nutritive value (including energy density, fat type, and vitamin and mineral, and fiber content) and their potential effects on weight gain. In addition, authors examined the mean cost per food item using prices from supermarkets, wholesale outlets and municipal markets across six parishes in Jamaica. Henry et al. found that the cheapest daily cost of a healthy Jamaican diet for a family of three is equivalent to the total minimum wage per week, which is J$269 (US$2.40). Authors recommend education towards promoting healthy food choices within the existing food system