Grocery Store Access and Food Security in Detroit During COVID-19 Pandemic

A new study explores the relationship between type of grocery store used, transportation access, food insecurity, and fruit and vegetable intake in Detroit, Michigan, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research found that chain grocery store shoppers reported significantly greater fruit and vegetable intake compared to independent grocery store shoppers. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing structural challenges to reduce food insecurity and promote equitable access to nutritious foods.

Key Takeaways:

The study, conducted from December 2021 to May 2022, involved 656 Detroit residents aged 18 and older.
Chain grocery store shoppers reported significantly greater fruit and vegetable intake (2.42 times/day vs. 2.14 times/day for independent grocery store shoppers).
Bivariate analyses showed that transportation access was a significant predictor of fruit and vegetable intake.
The study highlights the need to address structural challenges, such as lack of access to nutritious food, to reduce food insecurity and promote equitable access to food.
The researchers suggest that addressing these challenges is essential for promoting public health and well-being.
The study is funded by the United Way of Southeastern Michigan and Wayne State University faculty research startup funds.

Statistics:

656 Detroit residents were involved in the study.
Chain grocery store shoppers reported a significant 8.3% higher intake of fruit and vegetables compared to independent grocery store shoppers.
The study was conducted from December 2021 to May 2022.
The research was published in the journal Nutrients in 2025.

Sources:

"I Shouldn't Have to Drive to the Suburbs"Grocery Store Access, Transportation, and Food Security in Detroit During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Nutrients, 2025;17(15):2441.
NewsRx. Study Data from Wayne State University Update Knowledge of COVID-19 (TB & Outbreaks Week). September 16, 2025; p 498.