Multidimensional Grocery-Store Preferences of Low-Income Caregivers of Toddlers

Background Many U.S. toddlers do not meet recommended fruit and vegetable intakes, and intakes are lower in low-income households. Where caregivers shop shapes what they buy, yet studies of store choice have generally examined price and proximity alone, leaving other features of the retail environment largely unexamined. Objective We examined how household characteristics influence grocery store preferences among caregivers of toddlers from low-income households in Texas. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey in which caregivers of toddlers aged 12–47 months from low-income households residing in Dallas and Tarrant Counties, Texas, U.S. rated thirty-seven store-attribute items. Exploratory factor analysis with oblique rotation identified latent preference dimensions, and factor scores were modeled as dependent variables in multivariable linear regressions. The sample consisted of 148 caregivers with a mothers-only subsample (n = 121) analyzed separately. Results Five preference dimensions were identified: store quality and service, in-store accessibility, online and delivery options, price sensitivity, and food quality and health. Older caregivers and Hispanic participants showed higher preferences for store quality and service, in-store accessibility, and food quality and health. In mutually adjusted models, frequent food preparation was positively associated with most dimensions and frequent food shopping negatively associated with several. The two indicators agreed for most caregivers, so the contrast between them was identified by 11 discordant caregivers and was estimated imprecisely. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation corresponded to lower price sensitivity. Among mothers, non-Hispanic Black predicted greater concern for food quality and health, while employment was linked to lower price sensitivity. Conclusions Grocery store preferences among low-income caregivers of toddlers reflect multidimensional food-environment considerations that vary systematically by demographic and behavioral factors, with distinctive patterns among mothers. Programs aiming to improve access to fruits and vegetables should consider caregivers' roles, routines, and participation in food assistance programs when designing interventions.