Food environment and its relation to diet behavior and obesity in China

Objective In this study, a systematic review was made on scientific evidence regarding the impact of food environment on diet-related behavior and obesity in China. Methods Search on related keywords and references were conducted from four electronic databases including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI. Results Data showed that good availability, accessibility of neighborhood food outlets had increased the diversity of food, including the intakes of total calories, protein, fat, and carbohydrate; however, the consumption of healthy foods such as fruit and vegetables was reducing among the Chinese residents. The effects of neighborhood food environment on obesity remained inconclusive. A large number of fast food restaurants around schools might be responsible for the increase of risk on obesity among students. Regulations set on the school vicinity food stalls might reduce the intake of sugary beverages, snacks and fast food among students. Conclusion Building a healthy food environment is warranted to nudge the Chinese people towards a healthier diet pattern. However, more evidence is needed to support the evidence in building a healthy food environment. Key words: Food environment; Diet behavior; Obesity; Systematic review