Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the food environment found in the sports, recreational and cultural facilities of Quebec City. The study also consulted with municipality representatives in order to understand the actions needed to facilitate the introduction of healthier food choices in these venues. METHOD: Observation visits were carried out in order to determine the nature of the food sold and served in the sports, recreational and cultural facilities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Quebec City representatives, community organizations, caterers and a representative of the Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation du Québec. RESULTS: In general, there was little availability of healthy food choices in the vending machines and snack bars found in the sports and recreational facilities. The city does not have guidelines or a food policy for the food sold in its sports, recreational and cultural facilities, even though a majority of the questioned representatives said they were concerned about the quality of the food served in these facilities. Different solutions are proposed to correct this situation. CONCLUSION: Most foods offered in sports, recreational and cultural facilities are of low nutritional value. Citywide guidelines should be introduced to control the quality and the quantity of healthy foods and snacks sold in the municipal facilities. Although introducing these measures may be challenging, a majority of the municipal representatives agree with the proposed changes. They believe that a healthier food environment goes hand in hand with the practice of physical activity.