Assessment of predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors toward food choices and healthy eating among hispanics in South Carolina

The objective of this project was to examine the determinants of diet-related behaviors and the influences of the environment that drive food choices among Hispanic adults in South Carolina. A series of focus-group interviews found barriers to healthy eating, including limited availability of specific foods, insufficient time, and lack of cooking skills. Participants mentioned the need for education related to portion control, illness prevention, weight control, healthy foods, foods appropriate for children, and reading food labels. Motivators included risk awareness, advice from physicians, family help, and education. These findings provide a basis for developing nutrition education interventions that target Hispanic adults.