Glasgow Pilot Launches Healthy Food Markets to Combat Obesity
A £1m, three-year University of Glasgow pilot will set up healthy food markets in deprived areas to address food insecurity and rising obesity rates.
Markets offering affordable healthy food will launch next year in some of Glasgow's most deprived neighbourhoods to tackle food insecurity and obesity.
The £1m, three-year pilot led by the University of Glasgow in partnership with local groups will explore why many residents have diets low in fruit, vegetables and fibre.
Dale Todd, director of the Courtyard Pantry Enterprise in Ruchill, said food insecurity in the area has tripled in recent years.
Following this weekend's pilot event in Ruchill, two permanent markets are planned for 2026.
Last year’s Scottish Health Survey reported record-high food insecurity levels and found 27% of Glaswegians are obese.
Dr Ada Garcia, who heads the study, said that despite various initiatives, obesity, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes continue to rise in deprived areas.
“Deprivation limits people’s ability to access healthy food. Travelling to supermarkets and finding affordable, nutritious options is a barrier,” she said, explaining why the project focuses on local markets.
The markets will offer items such as fibre-rich foods, fruits and vegetables at reduced prices. One market will also incorporate art and creative activities to attract visitors.
With over £1m in funding from UK Research & Innovation, the project brings together the Glasgow School of Art, Glasgow Centre for Population Health, Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Food Policy Partnership and Glasgow Community Food Network.
Both Dr Garcia and Mr Todd emphasise working with established local organisations to ensure the markets are sustainable and community-led.
“Our food system has been transformed”
Mr Todd said surplus food cannot solve long-term food insecurity. His pantry supports immediate needs but depends on donations.
“Food insecurity here is driven by lack of money and access,” he said.
The pantry’s weekend event featured tomato salads and vegetable curry pies, with cooking advice for participants.
Mr Todd noted a wider issue: the decline of local grocers and the dominance of supermarkets, which affects food access in most of the city outside affluent areas like Hyndland.
Dr Garcia added that community spirit has eroded post-pandemic and the project aims to rebuild local food networks.
“A place where people can pick up a few healthy items is something we need to bring back,” she said.
Introducing community-based healthy food markets could improve diet quality and foster local engagement in Glasgow’s most deprived areas.
This topic was reported by BBC.
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