Purchasing sugar-sweetened beverages in Island Lake Anisininew First Nations

Health organizations support sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) policies without examination of the purchasing contexts in northern, remote First Nations. Therefore, we sought to explore experiences and practices purchasing SSB in Island Lake Anisininew First Nations. We utilized a community-based participatory design, partnered with Four Arrows Regional Health Authority. We completed semi-structured, qualitative interviews with adult residents from all four communities of Island Lake Anisininew Nations. Thirty-nine interviews were completed, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. We identified three themes: sensitivity to SSB pricing and strategic shopping, spatial and economic convenience of SSB, and SSB purchasing as a social norm. Many participants identified barriers regarding food and beverage procurement, living in remote communities. Thus, price and convenience were major determinants when purchasing SSB. Participants described various economizing strategies, selecting SSB based on location pricing, type of SSB, and amount purchased. Relatedly, purchasing SSB at community members’ homes, “home stores”, was described as both the most affordable and convenient option. SSB are perceived as simultaneously expensive and affordable in Island Lake Anisininew First Nations due to high food prices. Community members have sought to overcome challenges of SSB procurement with “home stores”, as both an economic opportunity and food security strategy in difficult circumstances.